Review of Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula

Patty Allread · Post by **Patty Allread** » 03 Jun 2022, 12:07

[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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In her insouciant children's book, Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula, R.F. Kristi tells of the adventures of Siberian cat detective, Inca, who calls herself the "Queen of Kitties." Though this book is number eight in Kristi's The Inca Cat Series, it is a delightful stand-alone read.

The world-famous Le Cordon Bleu cooking school invites Inca's humanoid Mom to judge a patisserie contest at Peace House in the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea. Inca and all her furry friends travel with Mom to see the sights and lend support to Mom, who will introduce her newly created cheese in Seoul. Inca discovers that the family hosting them in South Korea is sad because they have two family members (one humanoid, one feline) stuck living in North Korea, and they are not allowed to return home. Inca and her friends are determined to solve the problem.

There are so many reasons why I loved this book. The story is sophisticated for a children's book, introducing the situation between North and South Korea, the DMZ, and the idea that freedom doesn't exist in some parts of the world. But the story is told simply through the eyes of Inca, who has a fully-developed personality and is quite a competent detective. She makes the most of being a cat and knows how to take advantage of the fact.

The author doesn't talk down to children but instead expresses her story in a rather matter-of-fact way that assumes the young reader can understand. Young readers can share Inca's determination and hope for a positive outcome.

The illustrations in this book, by Jorge Valle, are worth mentioning. They are not only cute and colorful; they are a satisfying suggestion of how the characters might look. Each picture is consistent and has just the right amount of detail.

I'm giving Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula four out of four stars. There was nothing I disliked about this book. I would love to read the rest of the series. Though I did find some errors in the text, there are not enough to deduct a star from my rating.

My recommendations for this book vary depending on the age of the child. For readers up to age 7 or 8, I suggest someone read the book to them or that an older person read with them because the book has a challenging vocabulary. Words such as demilitarized, agog, sojourn, venue, and some foreign language terms may need defining. Older children can probably read the book independently, though it is likely they will also need to get some of these words defined.

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Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula
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Zwelihle_Myeni · Post by **Zwelihle_Myeni** » 12 Jun 2022, 07:55

I recently selected this book, I hope I get to enjoy it and answer the questions your review seem to pose on my mind. Thanks for sharing your views with us.

Patty Allread · Post by **Patty Allread** » 12 Jun 2022, 17:48

I recently selected this book, I hope I get to enjoy it and answer the questions your review seem to pose on my mind. Thanks for sharing your views with us.

Thanks for commenting. I look forward to reading your review too!

Jack A · Post by **Jack A** » 15 Jun 2022, 18:01

Great review Patty, and it does sound like a book with a different point of view!!

julietmumbua23 · Post by **julietmumbua23** » 21 Jun 2022, 09:27

I do not normally read children's books but this sounds interesting. Great review.

Ndagire Hassifah1 · Post by **Ndagire Hassifah1** » 21 Jun 2022, 11:53

I love to read children's book and this book sounds interesting. And with all the colourful illustrations, it is a must read. Thanks for the review.

Saint Bruno · Post by **Saint Bruno** » 03 Jul 2022, 09:47

Inca never seizes to amuse and entertain. This book has enjoyed so many positive reviews, so I believe it is a must-read for the kids. Thanks for the detailed review and recommendation.

Peter Nene · Post by **Peter Nene** » 22 May 2023, 06:34

I was pleasantly surprised by 'Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula'! R.F. Kristi's storytelling skills are impeccable, and the way she brings the feline detectives to life is remarkable. The mystery had me guessing until the end, and the setting of the Korean Peninsula added an extra layer of intrigue. A must-read for cat lovers and mystery enthusiasts.