What This Book Is About
The crown jewels have vanished from Buckingham Kennel, and the dog detective Sherlock Bones takes the case with his sidekick Dr Catson.
This is the part to know before you buy it: it is an interactive puzzle book, not a story you read straight through. There are more than thirty mazes, search puzzles and silhouette matches, and the reader works through them alongside the detective to narrow down the suspects. One case, worked in puzzles, written by Tim Collins and illustrated by John Bigwood; it is the first book in the series. A child expecting an ordinary chapter book will be surprised, in a good way or a bad one depending on the child.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why We Recommend This Book
For A1-A2 level readers (Grade 2), this book is a strategic recommendation for three reasons.
First, the puzzle-driven format is a powerful tool for reluctant readers. Children who resist sitting down with a "normal" book will eagerly pick this one up because it feels like play. Every puzzle solved is a small victory that builds reading confidence and stamina, gradually training children to sustain attention through longer texts.
Second, the mystery genre naturally develops critical thinking—a skill that UWC's inquiry-based curriculum prizes highly. Following clues, eliminating suspects, and predicting outcomes are all forms of logical reasoning that transfer directly to classroom learning.
Third, at 192 pages with interactive content, this book is deceptively long for an early reader. Children finish it feeling proud of having completed a "big" book, which reframes their self-image from "I don't like reading" to "I can read thick books." That shift in identity is often the turning point in a child's reading journey.
Reading Level Guide
Still building foundations. Start with picture books and read-alouds to build vocabulary first.
The sweet spot. The puzzles support comprehension at A1; the narrative text stretches toward A2.
A comfortable read at B1. Still enjoyable for the puzzles, but consider longer mysteries for more challenge.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.