  | Mystery at Emerald Pond (Detective Duck) Author: Winkler, Henry | |
| Price: $20.48 | ||
Summary:
While participating in the Spring Games, Willow and her friends encounter plastic debris throughout the pond that endangers the animals during the events.
| Added Entry - Personal Name: | Oliver, Lin |
| Illustrator: | Santat, Dan |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (07/01/25)
School Library Journal (10/01/25)
Booklist (11/01/25)
Full Text Reviews:
School Library Journal - 10/01/2025 Gr 1–3—In this third mystery featuring Willow Feathers McBeaver, aka Detective Duck, the Pond Squad are thrilled to get invited to The Emerald Pond Games where they will play games and get the chance to hang out with new friends, including the cool mallard named Maxwell. But when Maxwell goes missing and strange plastic objects float to the surface of the pond, Willow and her friends start to suspect something is awry. Thankfully, Detective Duck is ready to solve the crime and save their habitat in the process. With an endearing cast of animal characters, humor, mystery, and an environmental angle, this series is a delight for kids and their grown-ups. Short chapters and beautiful, full color illustrations are featured throughout, elevating the story and bringing the character to hilarious and charming life. VERDICT Recommended for all collections. - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
Booklist - 11/01/2025 In this third installment, Detective Duck and the pond animals are busy preparing for the Spring Games. As the competitions unfold, the animals encounter the dangers of plastic litter, and Sal the salamander struggles with jealousy over Willow’s new friendship. Though the mystery element is lighter this time around, a missing mallard provides an opportunity for teamwork as the animals band together to solve the problem. With short chapters and plentiful illustrations, this entry is accessible to emerging chapter-book readers. The bright artwork provides visual cues that support comprehension while helping readers follow the action. The story juggles three simultaneous plotlines—environmental awareness, friendship struggles, and the missing duck—which may feel overly complex for some. However, older children will likely enjoy the silliness. The large cast means that some familiarity with earlier books could be helpful, though not strictly necessary. A recommended choice for libraries looking to expand their early chapter-book collections, especially where animal adventures and light mysteries are in demand. - Copyright 2025 Booklist.
