The Mystery of the Swimming Gorilla: Secret File #1 (The Freaky Joe Club)
Grade 2-4–This first title in this series introduces the club's three members: Conor (The Condor), Jack (Chase William), and Timmy (Jimbo). The Condor documents their adventures and seems to know all about the club and its rules, although he shares them in a pretty piecemeal manner. When Jimbo's bike is stolen, the boys set off to solve their first mystery. Although this book couldn't be called a literary gem, the three friends are distinct personalities who pal around in a believable way. The satellite characters of Conor's mom, dog, little sister, and neighborhood security guard provide excellent foils for their exploits. The Condor observes that the adults are caring if sometimes inept. Although the concluding letter to readers from the author is a tad coy, it's hard to argue with advice to drink milk and read a lot of books.–Pat Leach, Lincoln City Libraries, NECopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.