Francine Poulet is the greatest animal control officer in Gizzford County, hailing from a long line of animal control officers. "The genuine article," Francine's dad always called her. She is never scared -- until, that is, she's faced with a screaming raccoon that may or may not be a ghost. Maybe Francine isn't cut out to be an animal control officer after all! Join a cast of familiar characters -- Frank, Stella, Mrs. Watson, and Mercy the porcine wonder--for some riotous raccoon wrangling in the second tale from Deckawoo Drive.
Chris Van Dusen is the author-illustrator of The Circus Ship, King Hugo's Huge Ego, and Randy Riley's Really Big Hit, and the illustrator of the Mercy Watson and Deckawoo Drive series as well as Mac Barnett's President Taft Is Stuck in the Bath. Chris Van Dusen lives in Maine.
New readers ready for a challenge and some laughs will welcome more characters from Deckawoo Drive.
--Kirkus Reviews
Like Leroy Ninker Saddles Up, it's a witty yet tender reminder of the importance of being one's best self. You do you, Francine.
--Publishers Weekly
With plenty of white space and a large font the title is tailor-made for young readers transitioning to chapter books and will be enjoyed by "Mercy Watson" (Candlewick) fans and new readers alike...A worthy addition to the series.
--School Library Journal
DiCamillo's quick, dryly hilarious dialogue makes this over-the-top story shine, as does the tender subplot about Francine's father, who still roots for her from the great beyond. Chris Van Dusen's comical caricatures of Officer Poulet, the ridiculously bejeweled Mrs. Bissinger and that crazy ghost raccoon make the whole book hum.
--Shelf Awareness
The wacky plot comes smartly together with humorous insights and lively illustrations. Familiar characters, including Frank and Stella, the Lincoln sisters, and Mrs. Watson, lead the story to its climax on Deckawoo Drive, resulting in the raccoon's capture, the restoration of Francine's self-esteem, and lots of toast.
--The Horn Book
DiCamillo's writing is diverting and warmly descriptive, the story has heart, and Francine is an undeniably likable character. Even in black and white, Van Dusen's illustrations evince warmth and humor. Fans of the first book in the series, Leroy Ninker Saddles Up (BCCB 9/14), and the Mercy Watson books may find similar enjoyment here.
--Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
School librarians will definitely want to add this new escapade to their collections.
--School Library Connection
Kate DiCamillo delivers an inspiring message replete with suspense and fun...
--Star Tribune