The Big Nap: A Chet Gecko Mystery

Hardboiled lizard detective Chet Gecko tackles his fourth hilarious case.Children's LiteratureIf you like phrases such as, Waldo couldn't hypnotize anyone¾he couldn't put his own foot to sleep if he sat on it, this series is for you. Fans of Chet Gecko, 4th grade gumshoe, most likely are ready for the next installment in the adventures of this lizard detective and his mockingbird sidekick, Natalie. A far cry from the Hardy Boys, the protagonist here, by his own claim, is the best lizard detective at Emerson Hicky Elementary. He and his partner get themselves in and out of jams. A metaphor is appropriate here but you will get all you want in this chapter book that will put a smile on adults faces and laugh out loud noises from kids. In this particular case, Chet and Natalie's job is to find out why their classmates, one by one are turning into teacher's pet zombies. As they proceed with their investigation, adult jokes will go over the heads of kids, but the gross out humor and relentless punning will bring kids back to this series over and over again. Teachers of reluctant readers take note—kids will take to this book like a hen to a field of chicken feed. (I just couldn't resist!) 2001, Harcourt, $14.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Kathleen Orosz