Masterpiece by Elise Broach

In this charming mystery, Marvin a beetle and family live under the kitchen sink in the home of James and his family. Upon turning age 11, Mrs. Pompaday, James' mother invites children of prospective real estate clients to his birthday party. James' party is a disaster complete with miserable gifts. Marvin wants to give James something great for his birthday. Using the pen-and-ink set, a birthday present from James' father, Marvin uses his legs to draw a picture of the scene outside James' window. Everyone in James' family believes James has done the miniature drawing including his father who is delighted with James' talent and interest in art. His father takes him for many trips to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. These trips are made with Marvin the beetle in tow. James must create more drawings, Marvin's family worries about him taking risky excursions. Both of them, James and Marvin end up in the middle of an art heist. The heist may lead them to a long lost drawing by the artist Durer, the artist in which James' family compares his drawings (well Marvin's drawings). Can the two friends pull off their own drawing conspiracy while aiding in the pursuit of an art thief and solve the mystery?

Audience: Ages 10 and up

Comments: I guess I just like stories with a bug as a main character. In this fast-paced mystery the beetle befriends a human and together they accomplish much in this likable book. Don't worry, James has to come with turns with taking credit for work he has not created. The illustrations compliment and add dimension to the story; they are reminiscent of the artwork created by Marvin. Give this one to readers seeking a good book this summer.