The Case of the Missing Monkey

[Editor's Note: The following is a combined review with THE CASE OF THE CLIMBING CAT.]--These first two cases in Rylant's mystery series for young readers introduce us to the "High-Rise Private Eyes," a detective agency run by animal friends Bunny Brown and Jack Jones. Narrator William Dufris depicts with humor in the two detectives' lively exchanges--Bunny and Jack seldom agree on how to track down clues--and also captures how differences between the two friends often help them solve cases. Other incidental characters are nicely drawn, too. Dufris's pace is kid-friendly, allowing time for children to read along or just listen while enjoying the amusing illustrations. Fun sound effects (like detective music in between chapter breaks) round out this enjoyable listening experience for children who enjoy a little sleuthing. J.C.G. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine