Something strange is happening at the Clarksville City Zoo. Late at night, monkeys are scaling the walls and searching the neighborhood— but what are they looking for?
Noah, his sister Megan, and their best friends, Richie and Ella, live next door to the zoo. Megan is the first to notice the puzzling behavior of some of the animals. One day Megan disappears, and her brother and their friends realize it's up to them to find her. Their only choice is to follow a series of clues and sneak into the zoo. But once inside, will they discover there's much more to the Clarksville City Zoo than they could ever have guessed?
My Review:
You won’t be able to repress a smile when you encounter a polar bear named Blizzard, a prairie dog named Hot Dog, or a rhinoceros named Little Bighorn! Bryan Chick creates a fantastic animal realm by vividly describing different sectors of the zoo. He also leaves enough out to let your imagination create the rest of the zoo.
There is enough action to keep unenthusiastic readers turning the pages. The constant foreshadowing will keep readers guessing and reading more. The mini cliffhangers at the end of most chapters make it hard to put the book down!
The importance of friendship and teamwork are constantly reiterated throughout the novel. Most challenges faced by the four children are solved using these ideas which fosters positive themes to younger readers. It is shown mostly through Noah who is absolutely endearing, doing anything he can to find his sister.
Although there is closure at the end of the novel, Chick has left his fantasy world open for new adventures for the four friends. Secrets and Shadows is due for release on February 1, 2011.
The Bottom Line:
Filled with page turning suspense and delightful animal characters, The Secret Zoo is a must read for young readers who love animals. The book is also ideal for averse readers or a child looking for adventure. 4/5
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