Ada Lace, On the Case

July 17, 2017
Calandrelli, host of TV’s Xploration Outer Space, brings a Rear Window vibe to this drily funny series opener, which introduces scientifically minded Ada Lace, who keeps tabs on her new neighborhood in a field guide while waiting for a broken leg to heal. When a dog goes missing, Ada investigates, aided by her exuberant new friend Nina. Kurilla’s interspersed b&w cartoons help create tension as Ada tries to narrow down the suspects. Calandrelli smoothly incorporates numerous references to scientific principles (such as Occam’s Razor) into the story, and the banter between Ada and Nina keeps things moving briskly. Ages 6–10. Author’s agency: (for Calandrelli) Octagon. Illustrator’s agent: Jennifer Rofé, Andrea Brown Literary.