Review of Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula

Francis Aderogbin · Post by **Francis Aderogbin** » 29 Apr 2022, 16:16

[Following is a volunteer review of "Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula" by R.F. Kristi.]

4 out of 4 stars

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Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula is a mystery story for kids and preteens about an animal investigator. It is the eighth book in The Inca Cat Detective series. In this book, R. F. Kristi narrates the adventures of Inca and other kitty detectives in the Korean Peninsula. Missy, their human mom, creates a new cheese. She has been invited to South Korea to introduce this new delicacy. She is also supposed to be a judge at Le Cordon Bleu's French Patisserie competition. They all travel in the company of their friends, Polo and Terrance. On getting there, they realise a mission is waiting for them. In their adventure, they visit the demilitarised zone at the border between South Korea and North Korea while crossing from South Korea to North Korea. Can they carry out this mission amidst the unrest between the two countries?

Apart from the mission and other experiences, they encounter a rival chef while Missy is at the competition. How did they manage the mischievousness of this competitor? That is what makes this book enjoyable. Grab a copy and find out.

As I mentioned earlier, this book is the eighth book of its series, but it can be read as a stand-alone because Kristi gives enough background information about the whole family. She includes the family tree at the beginning of the book and introduces the reader to who the characters are and what they do. This makes it easier for the reader to catch up and read this eighth instalment with much understanding. The book is also relatable. The author uses simple English words with pictures. This makes it fun and easy to connect to, especially for children.

I love how the characters complement each other's strengths and weaknesses. Inca is fun and full of life, but she is also the true definition of a choleric individual. She is always in charge, ensuring that everyone is on track. She always takes the lead in identifying situations that require the detective team's aid. I admire how she put everything in line to help Bo-Ming and Baram. Fromage is energetic, while Monk is intelligent and intuitive. Terrance is a brave dog.

These are the characters that are exceptional for me. Be ready to meet them in full force when you read this book. You will never get bored. I like the way the suspense is injected strategically throughout the book. I must say, Kristi is a skilful writer. She made me anticipate what the next action would be. Her description of each location is detailed enough that everywhere literally comes to life. The most exciting part for me was when they were trying to cross the DMZ. That part was carefully written, and I felt the thrilling sensation.

The book will teach children to have each other's backs and develop a strong team spirit. They will learn family values and will practise these in their daily lives. However, I feel like the book is set in a location where the political terrain might seem a little complex for the age group it is meant for. Apart from this, it is an excellent piece of writing and deserves to be rated 4 out of 4 stars. The book is also well-edited because I did not find any errors.

I recommend this book to preteens and their parents. I also recommend it to primary school teachers. It will be suitable for bedtime storytelling.

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Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula
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Rayah Raouf · Post by **Rayah Raouf** » 04 May 2022, 05:55

Oh my. I cannot wait to pick up this one. Inca is an interesting cat and I am very much enjoying her adventures. Thank you for the great review.

Muna Chizzy · Post by **Muna Chizzy** » 04 May 2022, 06:56

I love Inca's sassy behaviour and how she and her cohort played detectives in the book. Thanks for the well-written review.

Nwaka Chukwuemeka · Post by **Nwaka Chukwuemeka** » 04 May 2022, 08:49

Seems like a fascinating story. Inca sounds like an interesting character. I would add this to my bookshelf. Thanks for the review.

Amy Luman · Post by **Amy Luman** » 04 May 2022, 11:14

I find it fascinating how writers of children’s books give the animal characters human emotions and characteristics in order to teach things on their level, in this case, tensions between North and South Korea. I think the use of pictures is a nice touch, too.

Ellylion · Post by **Ellylion** » 07 May 2022, 05:39

Inca is a very cute and mischievous kitty

I love following her adventures! I like that the author allows kids to learn more about amazing Korean culture and traditions. Thanks for a great review!

Mildred Echesa · Post by **Mildred Echesa** » 13 May 2022, 06:26

I have read several reviews on this book, and I have enjoyed yours the most. I have been inspired to read this book. Thanks for the fascinating review