Another great series for early chapter book and middle grade readers courtesy of Mark David Smith. The Weird Sisters: A Note, A Goat and a Casserole is the first in a series dubbed the Weird Sisters Detective Agency.

Hildegurp, Yuckmina and Glubbifer have just moved to Covenly. They are a bit odd and intend to run a pet emporium out of the main floor of their home. When Jessica Nibley’s pet goat goes missing, she visits the three sisters hoping they can help her solve the mystery of the missing goat.

Mark David Smith has a winner on his hands. This story was engaging, entertaining and super silly. The whole cast of characters is unique and each has something memorable that will stand out in readers minds. The Bee and I had a ton of fun reading this book together and for parents and teachers who love reading aloud and doing the voices, this story has some excellent characters to voice.

The Weird Sisters is fantastic for early chapter book readers. The story was short and to the point without a lot of extra unnecessary drama and exposition. There is a missing goat and the goat needs to be found, simple! The chapters are short and sweet, not overwhelming readers and giving them an opportunity to feel a sense of accomplishment after finishing a chapter. For avid readers, this book could be read in one sitting but for those just dipping their toes in the chapter book world, it’s a great place to start.

Kari Rusts illustrations add extra whimsy and humour to the story, without giving the story away. Readers do have to read the words in order to understand what is happening. The illustrations add places to pause and a little break for the readers.

We cannot wait to see what the next mystery to be solved by the Weird Sisters will be.