AGENT STITCH

Stitch and his crew must travel to Paris to save the world from intergalactic evildoers.

The famed character from the Disney movie Lilo & Stitch is on a family trip with Lilo, Nani, Pleakley, and Jumba when he is called by the Grand Councilwoman of the Galactic Federation to assist with finding Cobra Bubbles and stopping the Snailiens from taking root on Earth. Stitch becomes an official Galactic Detective Agent, and with Lilo, Pleakley, and Jumba in tow, he hunts down the Snailiens in Paris. Behling’s story is simple: Following a set of rules from the GDA Official Handbook, Stitch puts aside his normally destructive tendencies to prove his worthiness as an agent. Behling breaks the fourth wall, often addressing readers directly, something that is nicely incorporated in a way that is not jarring. The Snailiens are a harmless threat—marshmallows are their kryptonite—suitable for younger readers. The book includes a brief summary of the plot of the movie, so prior knowledge of the original animated film is not necessary. The pace moves along well, thanks in part to Rea’s illustrations; some of the story’s progress occurs only through comic panels, giving it a graphic novel feel. The simple plot, appealing art, and familiar characters add up to make this an engaging read.

Accessible and entertaining.