Super sleuth by David Walliams

Walliams' first venture into mystery writing is a rip-roaring adventure, cleverly weaving outrageous humour with the suspense of a classic whodunit. Super Sleuth is set in the opulent year of 1929 aboard the majestic ship, the Masquerade and will have its audience captivated until the very end.

This story introduces readers to Dily, an orphaned girl with an insatiable passion for detective stories. Forced to live with an aunt as cruel as any fairy tale villain, Dily’s only solace is her sharp minded and loyal dog named Watson. Together, they form an unconventional detective duo, inspired by the tales Dily loves to read.

When the Masquerade becomes the setting for a chilling crime spree, Dily’s world of imaginary sleuthing turns alarmingly real. With one murder quickly spiralling into multiple ones, the stakes rise, and Dily and Watson find themselves not just solving the case but also dodging danger at every turn. Can Dily and Watson solve the mystery, or will they become the next victim to end up in the mortuary.

The narrative is packed with Walliams' trademark wit, turning even the grimmest scenarios into moments of humour and charm. Adam Stower's illustrations add a dynamic visual layer to the story; bursting with energy and personality. His labelled 'exhibit' diagrams of crime scenes and characters enhance the immersive experience, making readers feel like they are right alongside Dily and Watson in their detective pursuits.

For fans of mystery, humour, and adventure, Super Sleuth is a tantalisingly good read. The story balances suspense and comedy, creating a captivating page-turner for young readers and mystery enthusiasts alike. Dily’s resilience and quick thinking, combined with Watson’s clever antics, make them a memorable team. Whether they’re racing to uncover clues or escaping near disasters, Dily and Watson prove that true detectives come in all shapes and sizes. Walliams’ debut in the mystery genre is a triumph, ensuring readers are left guessing - and laughing - until the very last page.

Themes: Detective crime, Humour, Mystery, Problem solving, Fun.

Michelle O'Connell