If you’re looking for a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud mystery series for kids (or the young at heart), Rory Branagan: Detective is an absolute treat! This quirky, high-energy book is the first in a series that follows the hilarious and action-packed adventures of Rory Branagan—a boy with a sharp mind, a big heart, and a burning desire to solve mysteries.

From the very first page, readers are pulled into Rory’s world. He lives a pretty ordinary life until one day, he decides he’s going to be a detective. Why? Because something mysterious happened to his dad, and Rory wants answers. With the help of his unlikely but loyal sidekick, Wilkins (who also happens to be a bit of a menace), Rory dives into his very first case… and chaos ensues in the best possible way.

The storytelling is fast and funny, filled with clever dialogue, ridiculous situations, and a whole lot of running (seriously, there’s a lot of running). What makes the book stand out even more is Ralph Lazar’s distinctive, doodle-style illustrations scattered throughout the pages. They don’t just complement the story—they are part of the story. Kids who aren’t big on long paragraphs will love how the text and drawings work together.

Perfect for ages 8-12, this book is ideal for fans of Tom Gates, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, or Big Nate. It’s full of heart, humor, and the kind of silliness that makes you want to keep turning the pages. And the best part? There are more books in the series, so once you’re hooked, there’s plenty more Rory to enjoy.

⭐ Overall Rating: 5/5 stars
Funny, fast, and fabulously illustrated. A must-read for junior detectives everywhere!