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Junior Library Guild Selection

“Originally published in Great Britain in 2011, this first Artifact Inspector title incorporates plenty of suspense, droll touches, and shivery chills…. Jin is a likable, everyday kid who must use his wits and courage to protect his loved ones and city in an entertaining, fast-moving read.”

—Booklist

“[Jin] is a strong and courageous boy whose creative problem-solving skills will appeal to readers. Zilombo is caught between her predatory nature and a dawning humanity, and the conflict gives her an unusual depth.”

—School Library Journal

The Monster in the Mudball

Written by S.P. Gates
Published by Tu Books

A MONSTER IS LOOSE IN ENGLAND!

And it’s kind of Jin’s fault that Zilombo got loose.

Jin tracks the monster, but he can’t figure out how to get her back into the artifact from which she hatched. Then Jin meets Chief Inspector of Ancient Artifacts A. J. Zauyamakanda-Mizz Z, for short-who has arrived to inspect the artifact. She and Jin team up to find Zilombo.

Joining them is Frankie, Jin’s older sister, who has lost their baby brother-and Zilombo is the most likely culprit for his disappearance. Zilombo gains new, frightening powers every time she hatches. Now the monster is cleverer than ever before … and she likes to eat babies!

Will Jin’s baby brother be next on Zilombo’s menu? As the monster’s powers continue to grow, Jin, Frankie, and Mizz Z must find a way to outsmart Zilombo!

Primary ISBN: 9781620141410
Publication Date: September 2013
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Middle Grade, Age 07 or older

Community Represented: ,

Themes: , , , , ,

Setting: England (London)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

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Source: Lee & Low Books