Kid Detective (Harper Sharp #1)

In this jovial graphic novel mystery, Williams (Hip-Hop: The Beat of America) fuses classic detective tropes with the comedic chaos of elementary school life. Fifth grader Harper Sharp has two big projects on his plate: creating an original trading card game for Starview Elementary’s Young Inventor’s Fair, and cracking a rash of vandalism that threatens to derail the event. When the school gym gets TP’d and the custodian’s prized comic book is ruined, Harper, portrayed with braces and brown skin, relies on his discerning eye and methodical note-taking skills to uncover the perpetrator before further misfortune can occur. Harper is a refreshingly earnest hero: his drive and eagerness to learn, as well as his occasional social awkwardness and interpersonal missteps while juggling homework, relationships, and sleuthing, make him a delightfully relatable protagonist. Bold line art and dynamic layouts feature amusingly exaggerated expressions and call-out bubbles that zoom in on key details. It’s a warm celebration of creativity and critical thinking that champions learning how to pay attention, ask questions, and collaborate with others. Ages 8–12. (Mar.)