Ashley Belote has a tremendous gift for connecting with children of all ages through her incredible illustrations and simple messages. I particularly love her how-to lessons on drawing and problem-solving at the end of this short chapter book, perfect for emerging readers. Great length; it will give kids the confidence they can read longer books with ease, and the perfect mystery to keep parents engaged as a read-aloud. I hope this is a series!!!
Squirrel Lock Holmes #1: The Pet Rock Mystery by Ashley Belote, (List Price: $10.99, Random House Graphic, 9780593897829, March 2026)
Reviewed by Alissa, South Main Book Company in Salisbury, North Carolina