Theodora Hendrix and the Curious Case of the Cursed Beetle by Jordan Kopy

 There's only a couple days left until Halloween, and today's read slides in wonderfully with the spooky fun. This book released early this month and is the 2nd in the series. I did not read the 1st one (because I do that quite often) and am looking forward to seeing what surprises are in store. I think it will be lighter on the spooky end and head more into mystery, quirky situations and humor. But I'm ready to be surprsied!

THEODORA HENDRIX AND THE CURIOUS CASE OF THE CURSED BEETLE

by Jordan Kopy 

Illustrated by Chris Jevons

Walker Books Ltd

Middle Grade Mystery  /  Paranormal

288 pages

ages 8 to 12

If you think monsters don't exist, just ask Theodora Hendrix. The second in a brilliantly funny new series, perfect for fans of Amelia Fang.

After facing down an evil hag, a thieving skele-crow and an army of the undead, ten-year-old Theodora Hendrix is certain she can handle anything - that is, until she meets the unpleasant Inspector Shelley and her even more unpleasant pet rat. Shelley and Ratsputin have come to spy on the MLM, and are determined to make trouble at every turn. Then Theodora makes a discovery of her own: a cursed beetle. She needs to destroy it without attracting the attention of the inspector - and fast. The stakes couldn't be higher: if Theodora fails, her beloved monster family will rot in the dankest, darkest prisons of Transylvania...

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON    /     B&N

MY TIDBITS

A little creepiness, mystery, and monsters come together to form a read packed with adventure, humor, friendship, family and heart.

Theodora Hendrix might have battled down an army of the undead but now a bigger adventure awaits, and it's not the new head of the school. An inspector has been sent from the headquarters to make sure the monsters at MLM are following the rules. After all, adopting Theodora into their midst definitely broke a big one (no humans involved), but there's something off with the inspector. Soon, Theodora discovers that there's an evil plot at play, and her entire monster family is at risk.

I didn't read the first book in this series, but it still was no problem to dive into this one...although it would have also been nice to have gotten the backstory on Theodora and her family and friends. Still, it can be read as a stand alone. 

With an atmosphere reminding a bit of Hotel Transylvania, this read follows a ten-year-old girl as she steers through mysteries, adventures, family and middle school. Her adoptive 'family' is a lovely bunch, packed with personality and surprises. It's not a family in the traditional sense (rather, older monsters who form the MLM), allowing the dynamic to offer quirks, warmth, and individuality. It makes for a humorous and never boring mix. Theodora has a warm heart and is willing to take things on as needed, while also possessing a couple, smaller insecurities. This hits with extra potency since she attends middle school, and humans aren't allowed to know about monsters. With the thrill of mystery and danger, it's a read with tons going on.

A narrator slips in and out of the story, addressing readers directly while adding insights, thoughts, and another layer of humor. While the length nods toward 300 pages, the style, font, and many illustrations keep it appropriate even for the younger end of the age group. There are some thoughtful times and descriptions through Theodora's eyes to buffer the many things going on, and add breath. Next to the layers of problems, the multitude of characters keeps everything on its toes and gives a chaotic flair to fit the entire situation.

It's an exciting story with tons of room to grow, twist and bend.

And here they are...

Jordan Kopy is a born and raised New Yorker who now lives in London with her husband and poorly behaved (but lovable) cat. A financial services professional by day (no idea how that happened), Jordan spends her nights with ghouls, witches, and the occasional evil hag. She’s the author of the Theodora Hendrix middle grade series. For more information, follow her on Instagram @Jordan_Kopy or find her on her website at JordanKopy.com.

Chris Jevons is a children’s picture book illustrator with a passion for character design and storytelling. He began his career studying art and design at college and 3D animation at university. After graduating, he worked as a graphic designer, 2D animator, and illustrator.