The Big Bad Wolf Murder

Bell (The Beanstalk Murder) offers a smorgasbord of whirlwind action, riveting characters, and relatable life lessons in this murder mystery spin on “Little Red Riding Hood.” Cocky, white-cued 12-year-old Ruby Calvino is the youngest human player participating in the Tooth & Claw championship finals, a hide-and-seek-like sport during which athletes overcome obstacles while being hunted by a wolf. When, in the final showdown, Ruby’s wolf opponent suddenly dies, Ruby must flee, or risk being persecuted for the competitor’s apparent murder. Together with Fillan, a timid young vegetarian wolf employed at the sporting arena, Ruby must uncover the true killer while avoiding capture by a bounty hunter wolf who’s on her tail. During Ruby and Fillan’s helter-skelter escape and subsequent flight through the city and the surrounding Wild Wood—an enchanted forest bursting with untamed magic—the duo come face-to-face with mobsters, reporters, and their own biases about humans, wolves, and the precarious relationship between both groups. Ruby’s evolution from single-minded athlete to supportive friend and team player is endearing and inspiring, particularly as her relationship with Fillan blossoms. Messaging surrounding trust, teamwork, and ingenuity provide a fun if predictable foundation upon which this jam-packed fantasy unfolds. Ages 10–14. Agent: Gemma Cooper, Gemma Cooper Literary. (Jan.)