The Case of the Botched Book: The Adventures of Archibald the Koala on Rastepappe Island

This trio of colorful French imports introduces an offbeat, stylishly clever detective series featuring a koala named Archibald. Rastepappe Island, the books' exotic locale, consists of a colony of koalas (including, in addition to the hero, Archduke, the mayor; and Archivist, the historian) and one of Badgers (notably Badjellyfish, the fisherman, and Badgibberish, the printer) who coexist harmoniously--for the most part. Mysterious disappearances and strange occurrences in all three volumes require the sleuthing services of Archibald, who manages, chiefly through luck, to restore peace. The books' oversize format and hand-lettered text (by a distinctively European hand) will remind readers of that most famous of Gallic imports, Babar; although Cox's plots are more convoluted and his pages cluttered with endless activity--maps, diagrams, asides to the reader, inset illustrations. The highbrow humor and chaotic pacing will not appeal to all readers, but many will relish the refreshing departure from the straightforward storytelling style of more traditional American fare. Ages 4-8. (Sept.)