The Sunday Times A new book by Julia Donaldson is always a cause for celebration, and this latest offering is set to be another classic: a heartwarming celebration of books, libraries, reading and friendship, it's got all the trademark poetry Donaldson is renowned for, vibrantly brought to life by Ogilvie's illustrations. To look at, read aloud and listen to, this book is a delight.

Written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by the multi-talented illustrator and print-maker Sara Ogilvie, The Detective Dog is a fast-paced celebration of books, reading, libraries and the relationship between a little boy and his rather special dog. Books about dinosaurs, books about space and even books about dogs – Nell loves them all! But one day Peter and Nell arrive at school to find all the books have disappeared! Who could have taken them, and why? Luckily, Detective Dog Nell, with help from the whole class, is ready to sniff out the thief! Julia Donaldson is the bestselling author of many books for children, including The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom, and The Giants and the Joneses.

When she’s not cracking cases, Nell goes to school with Peter and listens to the children read. Her ever-sniffing nose is always hard at work solving mysteries and finding all Peter’s lost toys. Peter’s dog Nell has an amazing sense of smell. She was known far and wide as Detective Dog Nell. There once was a dog with a keen sense of smell. Written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by the multi-talented illustrator and print-maker Sara Ogilvie, The Detective Dog is a fast-paced celebration of books, reading, libraries and the relationship between a little boy and his rather special dog.When a crime needs solving, there’s only one dog for the job! Join Nell the Detective and help solve the mystery of the missing books. Books about dinosaurs, books about space and even books about dogs – Nell loves them all! But one day Peter and Nell arrive at school to find all the books have disappeared! Who could have taken them, and why? Luckily, Detective Dog Nell, with help from the whole class, is ready to sniff out the thief!

When a crime needs solving, there’s only one dog for the job! Join Nell the Detective and help solve the mystery of the missing books.

The Detective Dog by Julia Donaldson