Illustrator: Ben Wood
Published by Random House Books for Young Readers on January 7, 2020
Genres: Mystery, Crime, Children's Book
Pages: 208
Format: Hardcover
Source: Publisher
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“Ever wonder why pigeons always act so weird? It’s because they’re out there chasing the bad guys and saving your butts!”
Rock Pigeon’s idyllic life in the countryside changes when Grandpouter Pigeon invites him to join his crimefighting squad in the big city. With his talent in disguise, he joins the acrobatic Tumbler, strong Frillback, and super-finder Homey, each of which is named after a real species of pigeon (check out the cool facts in the back), as they solve three mysteries: missing breadcrumbs, kidnapped bats, and a dinner disaster. In between each mystery, an interlude foreshadows the next crime. This foreshadowing sets the stage and while giving readers clues on what to watch in the next mystery.
Real Pigeons Fight Crime blends the excitement of the mystery/crime-fighting genre with humorous dialogue and powerful illustrations that interact with the text to give life to the the crimefighting pigeons’ exploits. The clever mysteries and (age-appropriate) thrilling adventures will engage readers of all ages with a fun romp through the big city.
Writer’s Craft
First, the text and illustrations interact with each other in a blend of the traditional (illustrations of the text) and innovative (graphic-novel style with the text commenting on the illustrations). This method of storytelling is compelling and engaging. The visual nature of this book makes it suitable for beginning or reluctant readers.
Second, through humorous dialogue and lively illustrations, McDonald (author) and Wood (illustrator) invite readers to have fun. While reading serves some educational purposes, in the end, we want a book to entertain us, and Real Pigeons Fight Crime delivers. It’s clear that McDonald and Wood had fun putting together this book. (If not, they’re master-class liars, which only proves their mastery of their craft. After all, writers must become one when writing a work of fiction.) In turn, because of their enthusiasm for Real Pigeons, I had a blast reading this book.
Rated G
- Crimes committed: View Spoiler »
- There are some fight scenes, with no graphic violence, and potentially scary elements for young readers. For example, View Spoiler »)
Bias Notes
I’m predisposed to loving books with animal protagonists.
ShootingStarsMag says
I just love the premise of this one. It sounds really fun, and I think my nephew would love it!
Crystal (Kester) says
Yes, Real Pigeons is a fun read. I hope your nephew enjoys it!
Kimberly @ Caffeinated Reviewer says
This sounds fun and I love that pigeons got a book.
Crystal (Kester) says
I agree. It’s neat that pigeons got a book!
Lindsi says
I received this one for review, but I’ve been hesitant to start it. I don’t like books that are ridiculously ridiculous, you know? And this one looks pretty goofy (just from my flipping through it when it arrived). I thought I might read it with my son, but I don’t know… I’m still straddling the fence even after reading your review.
Lindsi @ Do You Dog-ear? 💬
Crystal (Kester) says
I understand the sentiment, Lindsi. Humor is really subjective, and you need to be in the right mood for it.