Review of Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula

[Cheryl Erickson]

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

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula is a dynamic children’s book by R.F. Kristi. It is the diary of a beautiful Siberian cat named Inca. She had a "snoopy" nature and proclaimed herself a “super-duper cat detective.” So she created the Inca and Company Detective Agency. The agency roster comprised four cats, two dogs, and a hamster. The team of furry friends loved to travel and solve mysteries together. Inca lived in France with her sister, her brother, their hamster, and their human mom, Missy. Inca’s mom was a famous chef, and she accepted an invitation to judge a French patisserie competition in South Korea. As a bonus, the trip allowed her to debut her new cheese to the international cooking community. Join Inca and friends as they travel to Korea, solve the missing cheese mystery, and go on a mission to reunite family members.

I enjoyed many aspects of this book. Kristi included educational content that taught Korea's history, geography, and culture. For example, the group toured South Korea and viewed the glorious cherry blossoms in Namsan Park. They learned about the Korean DMZ (Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea). They walked on the Freedom Bridge, where prisoners were exchanged between the North and the South at the end of the Korean War in 1953. I appreciate children’s books that teach good values. Ye-Jun, their tour guide, showed hospitality. He invited them to stay at his home so the animals would feel more comfortable. The cooking competition at the Peace House promoted peace and included chefs from North and South Korea. Inca and her group displayed teamwork as they worked together to try and reunite Ye-Jun with his sister, Ji, who was in North Korea. In addition, I truly loved the illustrations throughout the book. They were bright and colorful. They expressed the personalities of the characters. My favorite was the picture that exhibited the look on Fromage’s face when somebody stole the cheese! There was also a family tree, a character page, and a map of Korea that aided in the visualization of the setting and the characters.

I don’t have severe critiques or negative comments about the book. My suggestion is to correct the spelling and punctuation mistakes. However, there weren’t enough errors to deduct a point. I applaud Kristi and Valle for their unique plot, encouraging themes, likable characters, and adorable illustrations. I confidently give this book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

I recommend this book to children ages eight and older. Children that love animals, traveling, and history will probably enjoy reading about Inca and her friends. Teachers, parents, and grandparents should read this entertaining and informative book to their students and children. Since this book was a hit, I look forward to reading the other books in this original series!

******
Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda]

It must be super hard to broach a subject as complex and grim as Korea's situation in a child -appropriate manner. I agree with you regarding the edition. A couple of mistakes are usually no big deal on an adult's book, but kids are still learning proper spelling and grammar.
Great review

[Hazel Mae Bagarinao]

I like that this children's book has a little bit of Korean history. Inca and her friends look promising and enjoyable. I love that this book has a theme of hospitality shown by Ye-Jun. Plenty of moral values are embedded in this book, which I appreciate the most. Your review is excellent, Cheryl!

[Chris Agbara]

What a wonderful review! You captured the essence of the book and its characters. I love how you highlighted the educational and moral aspects of the story. I’m definitely adding this book to my reading list. Thanks for sharing your insights!

[Darin Erickson]

What a terrific review! I thought it was clear and very well-written. I can easily see how this book would be enjoyed by children of all ages, parents, and grandparents.
This book got me excited about traveling to new places outside of the United States. This was a fantastic book review and I enjoyed reading it. Thank you.

[Rosandra Hosein]

Great review! While children's books may not be my usual preference, I'm always appreciative of the positive values they promote. The educational content and incorporation of Korea's history, geography, and culture would make it an engaging and informative read for children. I like when a book reinforces positive values like hospitality and teamwork for children to practice.