The Kendrill family is surprised and a little anxious when they hear that several houses in their small, sleepy neighborhood have been burglarized. While 6-year-old Benjie and his older brother Alex are worried about whether their house might be next, the family cat Pete is confident in his ability to defend his household. The burglars in fact do hit the Kendrill’s house next, and Benjie has the misfortune to come home by himself in the middle of their theft. He is kidnapped by the thieves as a witness to their crimes, but not before he is able to leave a few clues behind. Pete co-narrates the story, with his perspective written in italics, and his uniquely feline perspective on things adds humor and levity to a potentially scary story of kidnapping and theft. While he can understand everything his humans say, Pete is perpetually frustrated that the communication does not run both ways. While he is desperately trying to show the Kendrills Benjie’s clues, which only Pete was witness to, they assume he is crying for food. All works out in the end – thieves are caught and stolen goods are returned – but the suspense in the meantime makes for a page-turning read. This is a sequel of sorts to The Stranger Next Door, another mystery co-written and narrated by Pete as he solves the mystery and clues the humans in to the truth. If you like animal-friendly thrillers, these and many of Kehret’s other novels will fill your order.
"Readers will keep turning the pages, though Benjie's harrowing experiences as a captive might frighten very sensitive youngsters. Kehret manages to include in her satisfying story humor, commentary about kindness to animals, and the importance of family and friends.” - Kirkus Reviews
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