Review by Marybthking -- Serendipity Mystery: Diary of a...

[Marybthking]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Serendipity Mystery: Diary of a Snoopy Cat" by R.F. Kristi.]

---

4 out of 4 stars

---

Share This Review

---

The Serendipity Mysteries, by R.F. Kristi, center around Inca the Siberian cat, who runs a detective agency in London with the help of her friends Cara, Fromage, Charlotte, Terrence, Monk and Polo (a group of cats and a dog). Together, they solve mysteries and have adventures together. This book is the seventh in the series.

In Serendipity Mystery: Diary of a Snoopy Cat, the team of detectives go on holiday to Sri Lanka. They are looking forward to some fun and relaxation in this exotic location, but no sooner do they arrive when a museum artifact goes missing. Along with the assistance of their human 'companions", the team's superior detective skills are called into action.

The story is quite charming, and the characters are likable and sweet. I work with young children, and I can see them enjoying the various characters very much. Another aspect of the story that I quite liked was the diversity of the characters and locations. Reading the book to children, it would great way to introduce a discussion about what makes the locations unique and interesting. Diversity amongst the characters and their respective backgrounds could also generate discussion. Another aspect I enjoyed was the kindness the characters extended toward each other. As a parent, I felt as though I could use the friendship between the dog, Terrence, and the feline members of the team as a touch point when talking about making an effort to accept others who may be a little different from you. Likewise, with the new friends they meet in Sri Lanka, there is a spirit of openness that is important. My final positive note is that the mystery has easily identified clues that children can find and discuss. Children love reading mysteries and finding clues as they go along in the story.

Less than positive was the section where Inca is lost in the jungle. While providing intrigue and a chance to meet some new friends, this passage goes on longer than necessary and doesn’t connect to the rest of the mystery. Serendipity, by definition, involves finding things not sought after and gaining wisdom or treasures by accident or mishap. Knowing that, I understand what the author is trying to do. However, I feel the segment could possibly be shortened as it seems a bit long in relation to the rest of the story geared at small children.

I found this story sweet and would enjoy reading it at school with children. I rate the book 4 out of 4 because the story is lovely and I couldn't find any errors that weren't simply stylistic preferences.

******
Serendipity Mystery: Diary of a Snoopy Cat
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Like Marybthking's review? Post a comment saying so!