The Secret Zoo, By Brian Chick (our reviews)

Late one night Megan notices something strange about the animals in the next door zoo. Shortly after that she disappears. Her brother, Noah, is convinced that the zoo had something to do with her disappearance, and when he starts receiving strange visitations and communications from the animals there, he enlists the help of close friends Ella and Richie in getting her back. The kids are used to having adventures together, but they aren't at all prepared for the bizarre experience that awaits them at the zoo in their quest to rescue Megan. Told with humor and warmth, The Secret Zoo is a unique story of friendship and conservation, and in this capacity it was enjoyable read. But being a mystery, the element of suspense is strong, and a war at the end of the book brings fighting and death into the conversation, so this may not be the best read aloud for young children. Additionally I found the sarcastic tone of humor to be off-putting, especially in an example of young friendships.

Interview with Calvin:

What is the story about?
Noah is looking for his sister Megan. She's been missing for two months. He goes to the zoo two times because he receives notes from two animals that are pieces from Megan's journal. At school he finds two of the scouts and they go to the zoo together. At the zoo they meet some animals. Noah goes to Arctic Town and meets a penguin. The penguin takes him to the Secret Zoo. Ella and Richie go to the prairie dog exhibit and they prairie dogs take them to the Secret Zoo. Then they find Noah and they find all their animal friends and some scientists.  Then Mr. Darby tells them the story of the Secret Zoo. Then the go to the Dark Lands and find Megan and bring her home with help from Mr. Darby and all the animals.

What did you like or not like about the book?
I liked the characters and the animals and how they work together to find Megan.