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Nancy Spector, Monster Detective
Nancy Spector, Monster Detective: The Case of the Missing Spot
Intrepid eight-year-old detective Nancy Spector and her talking dog, Jinx, search high and low for an invisible dog in this laugh-a-minute, fast-paced graphic novel perfect for fans of Dungeon Critters and The Mighty Jack .
The Invisible Man has a problem. His dog, Spot, is missing. Complicating matters, Spot is also invisible. So the Invisible Man turns to Nancy Spector for help. Nancy eagerly takes the case, and she and her grumpy best friend, a (visible) dog named Jinx, dive into the investigation.
As they follow Spot's trail, they find Every time they think Spot is right around the corner, things get more and more confusing, but Nancy knows that to a great detective, there is no such thing as a bad clue. And Nancy knows she's a great detective. Now she just needs to crack the case. . .
The Invisible Man has a problem. His dog, Spot, is missing. Complicating matters, Spot is also invisible. So the Invisible Man turns to Nancy Spector for help. Nancy eagerly takes the case, and she and her grumpy best friend, a (visible) dog named Jinx, dive into the investigation.
As they follow Spot's trail, they find Every time they think Spot is right around the corner, things get more and more confusing, but Nancy knows that to a great detective, there is no such thing as a bad clue. And Nancy knows she's a great detective. Now she just needs to crack the case. . .
208 pages, Paperback
First published September 10, 2024
5 people are currently reading
3486 people want to read
About the author
Stephen W. Martin
17 books26 followersSTEPHEN W. MARTIN is the author of Robot Smash!, Charlotte and the Rock and Stewart's Best Pen. He has also written for Frederator's Bravest Warriors and the Netflix series Trash Truck. Stephen resides in Los Angeles, California but misses Newfoundland.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 3, 2024
4.0 Stars
This is a wacky story of a child detective tracking down the invisible man's missing dog. This graphic novel has a beautiful colour palette with adorably drawn characters. At times, the narrative was a little “out there” for my tastes but I recognize that I'm not the target audience. There's a lot of “snot” humor that kids will likely enjoy. I think young people will enjoy this “cute creepy” read.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
This is a wacky story of a child detective tracking down the invisible man's missing dog. This graphic novel has a beautiful colour palette with adorably drawn characters. At times, the narrative was a little “out there” for my tastes but I recognize that I'm not the target audience. There's a lot of “snot” humor that kids will likely enjoy. I think young people will enjoy this “cute creepy” read.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
December 24, 2024
Cute adventure story for the dog-loving kid. Word structure is simple and illustrations are colorful. Perfect for middle elementary. My only criticism is there is soooo much snot going on. Yuck!
Thank you to Algonquin Young Readers for the gifted copy in exchange for my review.
Thank you to Algonquin Young Readers for the gifted copy in exchange for my review.
February 7, 2025
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A cute mystery story with plenty of spookiness and lovely illustrations. The Invisible Man's invisible dog is missing and Nancy Spector is on the case. Follow her and her dog, Jinx, as they travel the monster world, interviewing witnesses, following the clues, and uncovering a bigger mystery than they first suspected.
A fun story with plenty of twists and turns. I loved meeting the various monsters and creatures, including vampires, dragons, and skeletons.
The artwork is wonderful, perfectly creepy without being too scary. The cover is a little odd because the lighting changes all the purples to reds. I was a little surprised to open the graphic novel and find the character actually has purple hair and the cover's color palette doesn't match the interior. Pham's illustrations are great thought, with a nice blend of adorable, humorous, and spooky.
A cute story and a fun start to a monster mystery series.
A cute mystery story with plenty of spookiness and lovely illustrations. The Invisible Man's invisible dog is missing and Nancy Spector is on the case. Follow her and her dog, Jinx, as they travel the monster world, interviewing witnesses, following the clues, and uncovering a bigger mystery than they first suspected.
A fun story with plenty of twists and turns. I loved meeting the various monsters and creatures, including vampires, dragons, and skeletons.
The artwork is wonderful, perfectly creepy without being too scary. The cover is a little odd because the lighting changes all the purples to reds. I was a little surprised to open the graphic novel and find the character actually has purple hair and the cover's color palette doesn't match the interior. Pham's illustrations are great thought, with a nice blend of adorable, humorous, and spooky.
A cute story and a fun start to a monster mystery series.
September 30, 2024
Really cute and fun. Perfect for a new reader, probably 2nd grade or younger. Beautiful and fun pictures throughout. And plenty of green boogers.
September 4, 2024
This was a cute graphic novel with just the most colorful illustrations. It’s spooky, but not scary and absolutely perfect as Halloween approaches. Nancy is such a fun, upbeat protagonist with Jinx being a great, grumpy foil. I liked watching Nancy interact with other characters—it’s clear she’s absolutely beloved by everyone (except for one person apparently…) My only critique is that sometimes the illustrations felt so colorful and busy that they were a tad overwhelming on the eye. But, that could have been because I was reading late at night. Either way, my 6-year-old loved reading this one and I can’t wait to discuss it with him.
Note: I received an early finished copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Note: I received an early finished copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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October 12, 2024See my full review here: https://www.yabookscentral.com/nancy-...
THE CASE OF THE MISSING SPOT is a clever and colorful graphic novel mystery that will delight young readers who enjoy a touch of the macabre. Nancy Spector and her dog Jinx have been hired by the Invisible Man to find his invisible dog, Spot. Although there is little information to go on at the start, Nancy has a plan and begins her diligent detective work. As she and Jinx search for Spot, they must interrogate other monsters around town and follow a path of challenging clues.
What I loved: This is such an imaginative and fun graphic novel! Many of the panels and illustrations speak for themselves, and the story has limited text and dialogue throughout. This is such a great choice and really encourages readers to connect the story, study the details in the illustrations, and enjoy the ride as they go along with Nancy and her dog for this case. The illustrations were lush and often stunning with so much detail and expressiveness that they really tell the story beautifully.
Nancy is optimistic, clever, and has a great sense of humor. Jinx provides a foil for her with a bit of pessimism and a desire to be where the food is at any location. Together, they make a charming and comical team that works well together. They really come to life in the story and make this a series to watch! The ending also leaves the story open for the next book with a new villain emerging.
As a note, this is a monster story, so there is a touch of the macabre with mentions of the vampire's hamsters who frequently die (as he always outlives them) with having a funeral for one, Nancy visiting her parents' graves, and a potion burning a hand off (without blood or anything though). Some sensitive readers may want to have caution for this series.
Final verdict: THE CASE OF THE MISSING SPOT is a beautifully illustrated and clever graphic novel detective story that will capture imaginations! Readers will be left eagerly awaiting the next installment.
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
THE CASE OF THE MISSING SPOT is a clever and colorful graphic novel mystery that will delight young readers who enjoy a touch of the macabre. Nancy Spector and her dog Jinx have been hired by the Invisible Man to find his invisible dog, Spot. Although there is little information to go on at the start, Nancy has a plan and begins her diligent detective work. As she and Jinx search for Spot, they must interrogate other monsters around town and follow a path of challenging clues.
What I loved: This is such an imaginative and fun graphic novel! Many of the panels and illustrations speak for themselves, and the story has limited text and dialogue throughout. This is such a great choice and really encourages readers to connect the story, study the details in the illustrations, and enjoy the ride as they go along with Nancy and her dog for this case. The illustrations were lush and often stunning with so much detail and expressiveness that they really tell the story beautifully.
Nancy is optimistic, clever, and has a great sense of humor. Jinx provides a foil for her with a bit of pessimism and a desire to be where the food is at any location. Together, they make a charming and comical team that works well together. They really come to life in the story and make this a series to watch! The ending also leaves the story open for the next book with a new villain emerging.
As a note, this is a monster story, so there is a touch of the macabre with mentions of the vampire's hamsters who frequently die (as he always outlives them) with having a funeral for one, Nancy visiting her parents' graves, and a potion burning a hand off (without blood or anything though). Some sensitive readers may want to have caution for this series.
Final verdict: THE CASE OF THE MISSING SPOT is a beautifully illustrated and clever graphic novel detective story that will capture imaginations! Readers will be left eagerly awaiting the next installment.
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
September 15, 2024
A fun graphic mystery adventure with a tenacious protagonist who happens to be the greatest girl detective, Nancy Spector Monster Detective is a gem.
The invisible man has lost his dog Spot, so he turns to Nancy for help in finding him. There is just one problem that will complicate this case: Spot is also invisible. Nancy is a great detective and she knows detectives never give up. She goes on a mission with her grumpy dog Jinx (who is comic relief to Nancy's serious nature) is against the mission from the onset. The professor (the invisible man) tags along.
Nancy searches the professor's house and Spot's invisible dog house for clues, taking notes. Soon the trio sets off following Spot's scent. Jinx begins sneezing and Nancy figures he may be allergic to Spot's invisible fur. The more Jinx sneezes, the closer they are to their quarry.
A fun map of Nancy's island features Frankenstein Monster's monster's castle, ice horns, deadly whirlpools and a pirate cove. What reader can resist a cartoon map? Illustrations by Pham are energy-charged and will appeal to an reader who loves superhero comics.
Nancy Spector Monster Detective is fun frolic full of whimsy and creativity. Recommended for graphic novel readers, mystery lovers, comic book lovers and perfect for reluctant readers. Grades 4 and up.
The invisible man has lost his dog Spot, so he turns to Nancy for help in finding him. There is just one problem that will complicate this case: Spot is also invisible. Nancy is a great detective and she knows detectives never give up. She goes on a mission with her grumpy dog Jinx (who is comic relief to Nancy's serious nature) is against the mission from the onset. The professor (the invisible man) tags along.
Nancy searches the professor's house and Spot's invisible dog house for clues, taking notes. Soon the trio sets off following Spot's scent. Jinx begins sneezing and Nancy figures he may be allergic to Spot's invisible fur. The more Jinx sneezes, the closer they are to their quarry.
A fun map of Nancy's island features Frankenstein Monster's monster's castle, ice horns, deadly whirlpools and a pirate cove. What reader can resist a cartoon map? Illustrations by Pham are energy-charged and will appeal to an reader who loves superhero comics.
Nancy Spector Monster Detective is fun frolic full of whimsy and creativity. Recommended for graphic novel readers, mystery lovers, comic book lovers and perfect for reluctant readers. Grades 4 and up.
September 19, 2024
A dejected invisible man searching for his missing dog Spot finds Nancy Spector’s detective agency and hires her on the spot (pun intended?). Nancy, her dog Jink, and the invisible man (Professor Griffin) traipse all over their spooky island home following clues and meeting various other spooky monster-adjacent denizens in search of Spot. They make an escape on a two headed transport bird named Hank. They delve into tunnels, graveyards, and haunted mansions and experience gross out moments involving snot, barf and poop. In the end, Jinx’s allergies point them the way to the missing Spot.
I really enjoyed the visual storytelling in this not-too-scary detective story set in a horror filled town. Nancy and Jinx are a fun team, with Jinx the complaining comedic sidekick to the earnest dedicated sleuth. Sight gags and thrills abound, nicely shown by the expressive artwork, which really is primary to the briefer text. The colors are beautiful jewel tones with little white, and there’s even a map to trace the sleuths’ path. This would be a good offering for reluctant readers, especially those who are into gaming since it feels like an epic quest. As the first in a projected series, there will be more to look forward to.
I really enjoyed the visual storytelling in this not-too-scary detective story set in a horror filled town. Nancy and Jinx are a fun team, with Jinx the complaining comedic sidekick to the earnest dedicated sleuth. Sight gags and thrills abound, nicely shown by the expressive artwork, which really is primary to the briefer text. The colors are beautiful jewel tones with little white, and there’s even a map to trace the sleuths’ path. This would be a good offering for reluctant readers, especially those who are into gaming since it feels like an epic quest. As the first in a projected series, there will be more to look forward to.
June 27, 2024
This is a delightfully cute story about Nancy Spector, Monster Detective, and her search for Mr. Invisible Man's missing invisible dog Spot. There's a lot of humor in this story and there is so much in the artwork that you have to look closely in order to not miss anything. A lot of the "clues" were ones that only seemed to make sense to Nancy, and I can't say I enjoyed all the snot-covered images (but that's a me issue, not anything wrong with the story). Nancy refuses to give up on the search, though her dog Jinx requests it numerous times, and she even speaks with her parents gravestones who offer her encouragement. Also, Eugene's grandma (Nancy's vampire friend who had an encounter with Spot) being literal to a fault reminds me of Amelia Bedelia which is fantastic, I hope to see more of them in the sequel. This is a great start to a new "spooky" series and great for early readers.
Copy provided by Algonquin Young Readers.
Copy provided by Algonquin Young Readers.
September 15, 2024
In NANCY SPECTOR: MONSTER DETECTIVE. Nancy is an 8-year-old detective who solves cases with the help of her cranky dog, Jinx. When an invisible dog goes missing, she’ll need to use all her skills to locate him. She comes to some dead ends, but with some encouragement from her late parents, Nancy pushes through and persists in her search. With its vibrant spreads filled with clues, assorted creepy creatures, and plenty of snot, this mystery will delight elementary readers—and with its cliffhanger ending, leave readers waiting for more.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an eARC of the book to read.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an eARC of the book to read.
June 27, 2024
For me this is a 3.5 (I did not like the way this, while being the first book, felt like it was at least the 2nd book due to a few pieces of information that relate to cases we are not aware of) but for the 7 to 10 crowd, it is four. The colors are bold, bright and things are both a little busy and minimal. Things are just your typical mystery, but modern and is fun. Nothing OMG but I do like it. Maybe not in my Top 10 but for sure my Top 25 of 2024 (so far). Read as an online reader copy..
August 12, 2024
This graphic novel was super cute! The story follows an eight year old detective and her dog trying to find the invisible man’s invisible dog. The art is vibrant and whimsical. The story is not complicated as expected for something aimed at elementary aged children, but it was a fun quick read and I could see myself eating this story up as a kid. This would be an amazing book to read around Halloween with all the fun monsters!
January 4, 2025
The Invisible Man's invisible dog is missing! And there's only one supernatural supers sleuth who can solve this case...
That would be Nancy Spector, Monster Detective. I'm guessing you already knew that, though.
A fun, lower grade (3? 4?), not scary but mildly creepy graphic novel. The art's kind of a treat.
An funny book, that would be easy to recommend, which isn't much of a surprise coming from the author of Fluffy McWhiskers, Cuteness Explosion.
That would be Nancy Spector, Monster Detective. I'm guessing you already knew that, though.
A fun, lower grade (3? 4?), not scary but mildly creepy graphic novel. The art's kind of a treat.
An funny book, that would be easy to recommend, which isn't much of a surprise coming from the author of Fluffy McWhiskers, Cuteness Explosion.
June 17, 2024
Linh Pham’s illustrations will capture the eyes of young readers of graphic novels and the story of child detective Nancy Spector will spark their imaginations. Every space on each page is filled with color and detailed drawings of creatures from a world not our own. The simple text tells the story of Nancy trying to solve the mystery of the missing invisible dog belonging to his equally invisible professor and ending with shades of an evil nemesis at work. The identity and motivation of that nemesis is not the only unknown left by the end of this series opener and only time will tell if the next installment will answer why Nancy is living alone with only a cranky puppy partner as her companion, what happened to her detective parents and how long have they been dead and more. The unusual monsters in Nancy’s world could render this graphic novel scary but with the color scheme and lack of any real violence or gore makes it more fun and creepy and I anticipate this series to be very popular with grades 2-4 (and maybe a few years on either side of that range, too!) However, adults are likely to find the overabundance of booger-goo dripping from Nancy’s dog’s nose to be disgusting and unnecessary, the plot overly simplistic and may not care for this one. I, myself, made every effort to view this one as if I was part of that target audience and do believe that the younger elementary set will like this one a great deal.
Thanks for sharing a print copy with me, Algonquin/Workman Publishing.
Thanks for sharing a print copy with me, Algonquin/Workman Publishing.
November 14, 2024
rating 5 stars on behalf of my 5 year old niece who has had me read her this book every single night of my visit since I bought it for her for Halloween. She loves it; she is enthralled and engaged throughout, asking questions and offering her own insights. We are very much hoping for more of Nancy!
September 17, 2024
When Invisible Man's invisible dog goes missing, Nancy Spector is on the case. With eye-popping graphics and a case with many twists that leads Nancy, her talking dog Jinx, and Invisible Man all over the island, this story is sure to entertain. Try to keep up!
June 28, 2024
This book was hilarious, and I'm ready for another Nancy Spector adventure. The illustrations and colors were amazing. Such a fun read!! I'm glad I was able to get an ARC. This is a must-read
July 5, 2024
This full-color graphic novel is a blast! Fantastical, funny, and lots of fun!
July 28, 2024
Nancy and her dog are on the case of the missing invisible dog! Her keen observation skills and delightful illustrations will delight elementary readers.
September 12, 2024
The illustrations are so cute!
September 28, 2024
Absolutely loved it. My granddaughter loved it
December 7, 2024
It is a book about a hard working detective that loves a good case.a detective that will never give up.it was such a good book I had me on the edge of my seat the whole time.
January 4, 2025
Bought this for my 8 year old for Christmas and it was a huge hit. She’s read it twice and we just did a buddy read taking different characters. Art is beautiful, writing is fun.
February 19, 2025
A super fun MG graphic novel about a young girl who is a detective for the supernatural, trying to locate a missing invisible dog. Great for kids who love adventures!
March 6, 2025
3.5 stars
March 6, 2025
The illustrations in this were phenomenal! The story was ok :) The end had me intrigued though.
August 10, 2024
Such a fun way for the younger readers to get into mystery. Love the illustrations here too.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews