The Case of the Missing Action Figure: Jay Walker Book 1    by Grant R. Philips & Dustin Evans Order:  USA  Can Quiet Storm, 2004 (2004) Softcover     Reviewed by Melissa Parcel Jay Walker is an intelligent and well-liked fourth grader whose main claim to fame is that he's unbeatable at tetherball. Jay is surprised when he's approached by his old preschool friend Benny with a plea for help. Daisy Flyer has been kidnapped, and the culprit has left a ransom note. Benny goes on to explain that he had been playing with his Daisy Flyer action figure while waiting for the bus. It was too late to take the doll back inside, so he slipped it in his backpack. When he went to check on her a bit later, she was gone and a ransom note was left in her place. The note threatens to expose Benny's doll playing habit unless he hands over a prized alien trading card. Desperate, Benny asks Jay to find out who stole Daisy and get her back. Who can Jay trust? Can he find out who stole Daisy before Benny is embarrassed in front of the entire school? This is a cute story. The mystery is clever and most readers (both kids and adults) won't figure out the identity of the culprit before it's revealed. The illustrations are extremely well done and placed at intervals to keep non-readers interested, as well as to keep readers entertained. It's easy to relate to, and identify with, Jay, who is a typical kid. Jay Walker: The Case of the Missing Action Figure is the first of a four book mystery series, and I recommend jumping on board with this quick-witted young detective. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews