(4) 1-3 Lu and Clancy series. Illustrated by Pat Cupples. Canine friends Lu and Clancy nab two thieves who are attempting to rob passengers on the Drop of Doom, a scary carnival ride. The sketchy plot acts as a means of introducing five magic tricks performed by various characters. (Instructions for the tricks are included.) With its serviceable illustrations, this picture book is pleasant light fare for readers of short chapter books.

Reviewer: Martha Sibert

(4) 1-3 Lu and Clancy series. Illustrated by Pat Cupples. Canine friends Lu and Clancy and two pups encounter a thunderstorm, get lost, and spend the night in a cave. There's not much substance to the story, which acts as a vehicle for several activities demonstrating the properties of sound; for example, there are instructions for making a cardboard kazoo. Adequate artwork contributes humorous details. More safety reminders for the tin can projects would be helpful.

Reviewer: Martha Sibert

(4) 1-3 Lu and Clancy series. Illustrated by Pat Cupples. Dog detectives Lu and Clancy pursue a felonious feline who makes off with her audience's jewelry during a magic show. Mildly amusing illustrations depict characters that aren't fully anthropomorphized; they are shown sniffing and licking faces--as well as steering ships and balancing spoons on their noses. Instructions for four magic tricks (of more interest than the story) are included.

Reviewer: Tanya D. Auger