About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is transitioning into more complex chapter books and craves a mystery that feels high-stakes but remains safely grounded in humor and animal facts. It is perfect for the middle-grader who is beginning to question authority or who possesses a strong internal compass for justice. The story follows twelve-year-old Teddy Fitzroy as he investigates the suspicious death of a zoo's star hippo, navigating a world where the adults are often more interested in profit and public relations than the truth. While the premise involves the death of an animal, the tone remains fast-paced and comedic, focusing on Teddy's bravery, logic, and integrity. It is an excellent choice for encouraging critical thinking and discussing the importance of standing up for what is right, even when those in charge tell you to look the other way.
