Diary Of A Snoopy Cat By R. F. Kristi

Serendipity Mystery: Diary of a Snoopy Cat is the seventh book in the Inca Cat Detective Series by R.F. Kristi. Kristi tells the story of Inca, who goes on vacation with her family to Sri Lanka. They spend the first day at the sparkling beach. Later, they learn that robbers took a sword and gold coins from the local museum. Inca and her animal friends team-up to try to save the artifacts and find the robbers even though they are on vacation and experiencing lots of exciting new things. Inca chronicles their adventures in her diary.

I appreciate the diversity of characters and activities that are included in the story. Inca and her squad take a train ride, visit a tea plantation, and go on a driving safari. They meet a lot of new animal friends such as a sea turtle, a baby elephant, a python, and leopards. They experience cultural differences and learn about Sri Lanka’s lovely beaches and historical sites.

The format, visual elements, and typography of the book are cheerful. The illustrations are amusing and include fun details. I especially liked the one showing Inca dreaming of herself in the garb of royalty because she is being “crowned by angels as the best detective cat on the planet.” Another fun illustration shows a wide-eyed robber as he skulks on tip-toes away from the scene of the crime.
One passage, a helpful example of positive self-talk, reads: “Then, all of a sudden, the bright moon came out like a friendly soul, and my courage returned. I told myself that I could deal with this situation.” The story also emphasizes how much Inca values and appreciates her family. They don’t give up on themselves or each other, and they work as a team. The characters cooperate to help others and put their particular talents to good use. For example, even Rani, a little turtle, can help. Rani swims from the beach all the way out to a boat to investigate a