What This Book Is About
The Underdog Detective Agency in Dogtown is not doing well. When a run of thefts around town is blamed on a cat burglar, the agency does something it has never done before: it hires a cat.
His name is Fang, he is a one-eyed street cat, and his job is to work undercover among dogs who are not at all sure about him. That is the joke the whole book runs on. Kate Temple and Jol Temple wrote it, Shiloh Gordon illustrated it, and it is the first book in The Underdogs series.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why We Recommend This Book
The Underdogs is a gateway mystery book that builds critical thinking through humor. The whodunit structure naturally teaches young readers to gather clues, form hypotheses, and revise their thinking as new evidence appears—exactly the comprehension strategies taught in Grade 3 English classes at international schools.
Beyond reading skills, the book delivers a powerful message about embracing differences. The dogs must learn to trust and cooperate with a cat—someone fundamentally unlike them—to solve the case. This theme of cross-cultural collaboration resonates deeply with UWC's mission. The comic-style illustrations and short, punchy chapters make it irresistible for reluctant readers, while the mystery plot rewards careful, engaged reading.
Reading Level Guide
Building reading foundations? Start with picture books and simple labeled stories.
The sweet spot. Comic-style illustrations and simple dialogue make this accessible for A1; the mystery plot keeps A2 readers hooked.
A quick, easy read. Still hilarious, but try Sherlock Holmes or Brain Freeze 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.