Ra the Mighty: Cat Detective (Ra the Mighty #1)

"Fast-paced adventure with a lot of charm. (glossary of names, author’s note, source note, acknowledgements) (Historical fantasy/mystery. 8-11)" 

Copyright 2018 Kirkus Reviews, LLC Used with Permission

Gr 2-5--Ra is Pharaoh's cat: a position of great honor, privilege, and feline laziness. Set in ancient Egypt, this lightly humorous mystery follows Ra's growth from self-centered lethargy to a true detective--with help from his friends. A precious amulet belonging to Pharaoh's wife has been stolen, and a young servant girl named Tedimut was framed for the crime. A kitchen cat approaches Ra seeking justice. Ra reluctantly accepts the challenge, with some prodding from his scarab beetle friend Khepri. Time is running short though; Pharaoh declares the theft treasonous, which is tantamount to a death sentence for the thief. The story is enhanced by delightful black-and-white illustrations. Ra's initial vanity is well balanced with the apparent steadfastness of his friendship with a dung-loving beetle. Proud and lazy as Ra may be, his unwavering loyalty to a vulnerable friend makes him a multidimensional character from the outset. An author's note and list of sources help clarify fact and fiction. VERDICT A charming page-turner of a mystery; recommend to cat lovers and young Egyptologists.--Sara White, Seminole County Public Library, Casselberry, FL