Detective Beans and the Map of Mystery by Li Chen

When Captain Scuttlebeard gives Beans a treasure map, Beans is determined to find the prize at the end. The clues take him all over Cat Town – to places he doesn’t expect.

With Biscuits by his side, and with help from some other familiar faces, can Beans find the treasure and get home in time to clean up his room?

The third in the Detective Beans series, this graphic novel by Li Chen is cute, quirky and very funny.

Chen's characters are all unique and full of character. Every resident of Cat Town has their own personality.

The artwork is bold with colour and movement bursting from each page, taking readers on a vivid treasure hunt. The mix of pictures and text in graphic novels has been shown to help younger readers understand, decode and retain books, boosting confidence. Chen makes sure the text and imagery work perfectly together to really engage readers in the storytelling.

There are layers of humour throughout the story, from subtle to straight-out deadpan. This makes it a wonderful book for all ages, with something to tickle the funny bone of every reader.

Detective Beans and The Map of Mystery is a creative and clever addition to the Cat Town pride that will entertain and foster a love of reading for all.

Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell

Penguin