The Case of the Burgled Bundle (A Mighty Muskrat Mystery #3)

Gr 3-7--The Mighty Muskrats are back, this time investigating a mystery at the National Assembly of Cree Peoples. The Treaty 12 bundle, a sacred object passed down through generations and containing the tribe's history, goes missing one night, disappearing from a guarded tent. The Muskrats know how much is at stake if it goes missing: The bundle is the center of a sacred, four-day storytelling ceremony. But their prime suspects are leaving town. Will the Muskrats find the bundle in time for the ceremony? It's refreshing to read a book steeped in First Nations culture and tradition, with this particular story focusing on the importance of ceremony. The protagonists are scrappy and resourceful, eager to learn about their history and respect their elders. This book will likely appeal more to children interested in history and First Nations culture; while the mystery is high stakes and has a satisfying twist ending, the crime does not occur until the seventh chapter. Readers will also benefit from starting with the first book, so as to have to a stronger introduction to the characters. VERDICT A much-needed #OwnVoices story centered on First Nations characters and culture, but may have a harder time pulling in readers seeking a fast-paced mystery.--Kristin Brynsvold, Tuckahoe Elem. Sch., Arlington, VA