Poached by Stuart Gibbs is a fabulous action-packed middle
grade read for those who love animals and adventures. A sequel that doesn’t
disappoint and you don’t have to read the first one to really get to know the
characters.
Meet Teddy Fitzroy, a 7th grader who is the
primary suspect when a Koala has gone missing from FunJungle, an exact
definition of the name but in a zoo-like setting. Teddy’s parents both work at
FunJungle and all of Teddy’s life he has spent with animals. Why would he take
a newly acquired Koala on loan from Australia. He has been set up and he knows
it but all the proof is directed at him. If Teddy doesn’t find the culprit he
will be shipped off to juvie as a convicted koala-napper. To top off his bad
luck, Teddy is also bullied by the meanest and toughest kid in the middle
school, Vance. Teddy just can’t seem to catch a break, yet his perseverance
prevails.
An extremely well-written story about mystery, animals,
bullying, as well as a sweet coming of age story that will keep you on the edge
of your seat guessing who took the Koala from the beginning to the end.
Recommended for ages 8-12.