Mr. and Mrs. Bunny-Detectives Extraordinaire!

Gr 3–5—Middle-grader Madeline lives with her hippie parents on a remote Canadian island. When she arrives home one day, they are missing; the only clue to their disappearance is a threatening note signed by "The Enemy." Meanwhile, world-famous rabbit chef Franny Fox has died. Because her recipes are all written in secret code, the plans to make millions by mass-producing and selling them to the Fox Community are all but foiled. The only one capable of decoding them is Madeline's Uncle Runyon. And the only people who know his whereabouts are Madeline's parents. Enter a gang of Fox kidnappers. Luckily, Mr. and Mrs. Bunny have decided to become detectives and take the case. With their help, Madeline's parents are rescued and the foxes' sinister plot is thwarted—at least for now. Horvath has created a delightful story about family, friendship, and living Green. Blackall's whimsical illustrations further enhance this tale's charm. Unfortunately, the intended audience is problematic. The satirical elements will doubtless fly over the heads of young children interested in stories featuring fedora-wearing, Smart Car-driving, rabbit detectives, and older readers might find it all a bit silly. Also, Madeline seems a bit too old for this type of fantasy. Still, some children will find something to appreciate in this multilevel story.—Alissa J. LeMerise, Oxford Public Library, MI