Whimsical, clever, and full of heart…
In Keating’s engaging early chapter book, a young fairy detective puts her budding sleuthing skills to the test across Englewood Forest, where even the smallest mysteries carry surprisingly big lessons. A vanished spider marking, a cat haunted by something enormous, and a stolen festival pie send Shaila Holmes fluttering through Englewood Forest—following muddy clues, nervous twitches, and crumb-strewn trails toward surprising truths.
Each mystery blends gentle suspense with clear, accessible logic. Shaila models thoughtful problem-solving, while Itsy adds warmth and humor. Brisk dialogue and a lively woodland cast make the book ideal for read-alouds or independent readers. Keating layers in social-emotional themes, including miscommunication, insecurity, fear of the unfamiliar while closing each case with engaging animal facts that spark curiosity about the natural world. Kyria McKie’s delicate, storybook-style illustrations bring warmth and clarity to the forest setting. Expressive characters and cozy woodland details enhance comprehension while preserving the book’s gentle charm. Expanding her detective expertise with every case, Shaila proves that courage, kindness, and critical thinking go hand in hand. This inviting series opener delivers comfort, humor, and thoughtful life lessons, assuring young readers that no mystery is too small when approached with curiosity and heart.
Well suited for libraries seeking engaging transitional reads that support critical thinking and classroom discussion.
Illustrations by Kyria McKie
Pub date March 17, 2026
ISBN 979-8295559464
Print length 122 pages
Age 6-9 years
Price $12.99 (USD) Paperback, $7.99 Kindle edition
