Strange Neighbors (Sam: Dog Detective)
Grade 3-5-Sam the sheep dog and her human buddies, 10-year-old Jennie and her friend Beth, are back to solve another mystery. The trouble begins when Sam witnesses strange events as new neighbors move in. First, toads escape from a crate and hop in a long line down the street. Sam communicates events to Jennie through her thoughts, and, as in the past, Jennie can hear what the canine thinks. Later, the three odd-looking newcomers arouse suspicion with their weird behavior. Sam and the girls are convinced that they are witches who are up to no good. The story is fast paced and easy to read. Simple misunderstandings provide the perfect amount of intrigue, allowing the suspense to build naturally. All in all, an enjoyable read.Mary M. Hopf, Los Angeles Public LibraryCopyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.