The Lucky House Detective Agency
When Felix isn’t at school, or reading detective books, he’s helping his parents in the Lucky House Chinese takeaway. There’s a constant queue of customers – all called after their orders because Mum can’t remember their names – from Sweet-and-Sour Granny to No Peppers.
Mum says the success of the family business is down to Optimus, the money plant they brought from Hong Kong when they moved to England. So when Optimus is knocked over and broken, Mum is distraught, convinced that their luck has run out. But she hasn’t spotted the ancient coin that Felix finds at the bottom of Optimus’s pot. Could it lead to secret treasure? It’s the perfect mystery for Felix and his best friend Isaac, aka the Lucky house Detective Agency.
The energetic narration captures the unvarnished excitements and annoyances of a ten-year-old boy. Felix’s admiration and loyalty to Isaac are matched by his irritation at his nemesis, know-it-all Nina. Bold, black and white illustrations complement the clear-eyed, forthright voice.
Li has created an endearing protagonist, smart and curious, sometimes gauche but always kind. The story races along, celebrating diversity unobtrusively, never didactically, by weaving history, culture and of course food into the narrative. With an ancient legend, a treasure hunt, three young detectives and a feast of Chinese food, young readers will laugh and learn from this warm-hearted mystery.
