Nate the Great and the Monster Mess

December 1, 1999
Gr 1-3-When Nate's mom cannot find her recipe for his favorite monster cookies, the boy detective immediately sets out to find it. With the help of his dog, Sludge, Nate combs his home and neighborhood for clues. On his search, the supersleuth questions a cast of characters with whom readers of the series will be familiar, such as Annie, Oliver, and Rosamond. Using his problem-solving skills, Nate is finally able to figure out where the elusive recipe for Strawberry Draculas, Chocolate Frankensteins, and Cinnamon Werewolves was hiding. The short chapters and quick resolution of the mystery will be appreciated by beginning readers. Weston's colorful illustrations, done in the style of the series' original illustrator, Marc Simont, provide visual clues and break up the text nicely. Nate's many fans will eagerly sink their teeth into this treat.-Maura Bresnahan, Shawsheen School, Andover, MA

Copyright 1999 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2000
Nate's latest case is close to his heart or, rather, stomach. The boy detective and his canine sidekick, Sludge, are in hot pursuit of his mother's Monster Cookies recipe. Like earlier books in the popular series, this installment maintains a winning combination of crisp narration, quirky characters, and subtle humor. Weston's understated, yet expressive illustrations hold true to the style of the original illustrator, Marc Simont.

(Copyright 2000 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)