The case of the burgled bundle

Gr 3--7--The Mighty Muskrats are back, this time investigating a mystery at the National Assembly of Cree Peoples. The Treaty 12 bundle, a sacred object passed down through generations and containing the tribe's history, goes missing one night, disappearing from a guarded tent. The Muskrats know how much is at stake if it goes missing: The bundle is the center of a sacred, four-day storytelling ceremony. But their prime suspects are leaving town. Will the Muskrats find the bundle in time for the ceremony? It's refreshing to read a book steeped in First Nations culture and tradition, with this particular story focusing on the importance of ceremony. The protagonists are scrappy and resourceful, eager to learn about their history and respect their elders. This book will likely appeal more to children interested in history and First Nations culture; while the mystery is high stakes and has a satisfying twist ending, the crime does not occur until the seventh chapter. Readers will also benefit from starting with the first book, so as to have to a stronger introduction to the characters. VERDICT A much-needed #OwnVoices story centered on First Nations characters and culture, but may have a harder time pulling in readers seeking a fast-paced mystery.--Kristin Brynsvold, Tuckahoe Elem. Sch., Arlington, VA

When the memory bundle goes missing, four mystery-solving cousins from the Windy Lake Cree First Nation in Canada are on the case. The Mighty Muskrats are cousins Otter, Atim, Chickadee, and Sam, who live in the fictional Treaty #12 area. During the National Assembly of Cree Peoples, which is being held at Windy Lake, the memory bundle holding the Nation's treaty with the Crown is stolen. Fortunately the Muskrats are ready to investigate in this, their third, outing. At events such as this one, the bundle is opened, stories are told, and the contents are shared by the Bundle Holder, which means there is no shortage of suspects: Practically everyone, from Windy Lake's bully, Pearl, to Casey, a boy visiting from Butterfly Narrows, is considered a suspect. This book is both educational and entertaining; Hutchinson (Misipawistik Cree) weaves cultural and historical context into the story, age-appropriately discussing a wide range of topics, including the impact of colonialism, why various First Nations have different histories with Europeans and Canadians, and the significance of ceremonies. All of this is presented through the eyes of our eager detectives, the Mighty Muskrats. The unfolding of the mystery allows readers to use their deductive reasoning skills to try to figure out who the thief is, as the Muskrats share and discuss information with one another. Mystery and humor keep readers engaged. (author's note) (Mystery. 9-12) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.