Jigsaw Jones: The Case of the Disappearing Dinosaur

By James Preller

Featuring friendship, school, family, and a diverse community, these early illustrated chapter books from James Preller have it all.

Got a mystery to solve? Jigsaw Jones is on the case. Anything that ever goes missing or lost, Jigsaw and his partner, Mila, can find. Then, during a magic show, they watch a toy dinosaur disappear, right in front of their eyes! Even the magician can't seem to bring it back. Luckily Jigsaw doesn't believe in magic, and he's determined to find that dinosaur!

James Preller's wry, witty, Jigsaw Jones books are once again available to inspire the next generation of young readers, featuring both new titles and classroom classics!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Macmillan Publishers
• Release date: Nov 21, 2017
• ISBN: 9781250110879

James Preller

James Preller is the author of the popular Jigsaw Jones mystery books, which have sold more than 10 million copies since 1998. He is also the author of Bystander, named a 2009 Junior Library Guild Selection, Six Innings, an ALA Notable Book, and Mighty Casey, his own twist on the classic poem, “Casey at the Bat.” In addition to writing full-time, Preller plays in a men’s hardball league and coaches Little League. He compares coaching kids to “trying to hold the attention of a herd of earthworms.” He lives in Delmar, New York with his wife, three children, cats and dog.

Book preview

Chapter

1

Danika the Great

It was a perfect Saturday afternoon. Blue sky, no clouds, no worries. One of those days you’d like to slide into a Xerox machine and copy 365 times.

You could call it a year.

And every day would be Saturday.

Too bad I was stuck inside, sitting on Danika Starling’s living room floor. I was doing a lot of nothing much and pretending to be happy about it. Suddenly, Danika swept into the room wearing a top hat and cape. She beamed while Mila and I politely applauded. Off to the side, Lucy Hiller frowned unhappily. Nuh-uh, Lucy said. Your entrance still needs something. It’s got no style. No zip.

What do you mean, no zip? Danika complained. I haven’t even started my magic act yet.

You’re taking the stage, Danika, Lucy stated. You’re putting on a big show. You’ve got to grab the audience’s attention right away.

Lucy! I groaned. She’s rehearsing for a birthday party. What do you expect? Flashing lights and stink bombs?

Jigsaw, you’re a wonderful detective. But leave the magic act to us, Lucy commented. Suddenly, her eyes lit up. I’ve got it! Danika, you need a snazzy opening. Something peppy and fun. With loud music. You know, big drums and electric guitars. And this time, I’ll give you a snappy introduction.

Lucy gently pushed Danika out of the room. Come in after I announce you, she instructed.

Danika did as she was told. Then Lucy, all curls and big eyes, turned to Mila and me. Welcome, ladies and gentlemen! she boomed. "It is time for our incredible magic show. Please put your hands together for … Danika the