Class Pet Squad: Journey to the Center of Town

When Ben McGillicutty leaves his beloved Sharkman action figure at school, the Class Pet Squad springs into action, determined to reunite Ben with his toy. Reptilian Rhonda plots the route to Ben’s house; turtle Julius is in charge of supplies; three genius mice invent the robotic canine “vehicle” that will get them there; and Max the hamster enlists the dubious services of the Second Street Specials, a gang of vermin. (Glitter-loving bunny Suzu is told, “Just stay out of trouble!”) Crisp, chunky two-color cartoons amp up the action-movie-spoof atmosphere (paperclip grappling hook, anyone?). Tense encounters with local cats and dogs are just a few of the hurdles that Yaccarino throws at his brave crew, whose big personalities belie their tiny statures. A promising first adventure. Ages 7–9. Agent: Rebecca Sherman, Writers House. (June)