NO TIME LIKE SHOW TIME

The intrepid detective Hermux Tantamoq returns in a show-biz setting accompanied by many of his familiar cohorts from previous adventures. Linka Perflinger, aviatrix extraordinaire, is less present in the action, although she retains her top billing in Hermux’s heart. Terfle, the pet ladybug is an impressive assistant, and Tucka Mertslin’s snobby, elitist, money-grubbing ways continue to amuse as other familiar and some new characters complete the cast in a universe where mice live like humans. At times, the combination of rodent and human qualities result in delightful images, but others, such as a mouse with pigtails, are harder to imagine. Nonetheless, fans of the series will find satisfaction and amusement in this stage-struck mystery, as well as delight in the slow unraveling of the clues through chance and dogged detective work. Newcomers can enjoy the show, but the depth of character revealed in earlier adventures is taken for granted. These mice are very much mature adults and yet the author carefully keeps within bounds that kids can understand, making this a great choice for families to share. (Fiction. 10-14)