Woof

By: Spencer Quinn

Narrated by: James Frangione

Length: 7 hrs and 3 mins

Publisher's summary

Bowser is a dog detective on the loose, paired with an 11-year-old girl, Birdie. Bowser and Birdie live on the Louisiana coast with Birdie's Grammy. When a prize stuffed marlin is stolen from Grammy's bait and tackle shop, Birdie and Bowser decide to take on the case. But what looks like a straightforward break-in soon becomes as tangled as a tourist's fishing line.

Was Grammy hiding a treasure map in the marlin? What's up with Old Man Straker, owner of a rival tackle shop, and his juvenile-delinquent son? And most sinister of all, why does it suddenly look as if someone wants to harm Birdie?

Told entirely from Bowser's hilarious dog point of view, Woof launches a brand-new slightly slobbery but utterly winning detective duo.

©2015 Spencer Quinn (P)2015 Scholastic Inc.

Critic reviews

"Spencer Quinn speaks two languages - suspense and dog - fluently." (Stephen King)

Wonderful💎💍🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕

I love dogs and I am 9 yr. old. The book has mistery , friendship , and the mane characters are a dog named bowser, and his ouner birdie. It's one of the best books I've ever read!

Like meeting Chet in his "teens"! Love it!

Would you consider the audio edition of Woof to be better than the print version?

Did not read the print version. James Frangione's characterization's are too good to pass up by "settling" for print! (no offense intended for print lovers out there).

What other book might you compare Woof to and why?

This book compares very well with Spencer Quinn's "Chet and Bernie" series. I completely fell in love with Chet (the canine narrator). Because these were murder mysteries, I struggled when something sad or brutal was indicated.

But in this new novel, intended for a younger audience, the brutality is limited (or distanced from the reader). Bowser is our narrator and a delightful teenage version of Chet.

You will not be disappointed with Bowser's point of view - or those endearing canine qualities that Quinn captures so well.

This series' main (human) character, "Birdy" is well matched to her canine. It was interesting to see her learning to notice, and beginning to trust that this dog is actively participating in the search for clues. For me, this was like seeing the interaction with Chet and Bernie developing ( it was already well developed in the first novel).

What does James Frangione bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Not enough space, time or words to adequately cover! The man brings these characters to life! Not only does he transition smoothly and completely from young, old, male, female, crotchety, gentle; he completely incorporates the energy and enthusiasm, the optimism of a dog! I haven't even bothered to read the print versions. If I ever do, will probably be hearing the voice of Bowser in my head as Jim Frangione portrays him!

Any additional comments?

I look forward to reading (listening to) the rest of this series! So glad Spencer Quinn chose to write for this age group! Keep them coming please!

Not Chet, BUT...

I've been waiting a long time for another Chet and Bernie novel and disappointed every time I checked for more. But, I saw this one by Spencer Quinn and couldn't resist. The new canine is very much like Chet, but not. The story line is a simple one, yet extremely fun to listen to. The narrator is one of the best and I could listen to just about anything he reads, just for the life he gives to the characters. He never fails to give the characters just the right amount of "character" and personality. If you loved the Chet and Bernie stories, you'll be charmed by this one too.

Light hearted and fun

If you like the other series from Spencer Quinn -- Chet and Bernie -- you'll like this one. James Frangione's narration is solid and enjoyable. There's no real suspense or deep, hidden meaning. It's just a pleasant way to pass a few hours while working out or traveling alone.

Fun With Spencer & James

IF you are a fan of Spencer Quinn's Chet and Bernie books and you are a fan of James Frangione narrating those books, This is a no brainer. It is another fun story, this time with a dog named Bowser and his friend Birdie. Easy and Enjoyable !!!

Good family story!

A mystery about an 11 year old girl and her rescued dog, told through the dog's voice. Exciting and funny! We enjoyed the listen.

Story arc splats

This story felt as if it ran aground in the swamp. I had higher expectations.

A fun adventure with Bowser and Birdie.

The only thing wrong is I am now waiting for the next story about how to grow up In the bayou.

Another wonderful dog!

It's hard to love a new dog at first, but if dogs are in your heart, this one will be too! It is amazing to see how Quinn actually succeeds at making a distinct personality, not just a Chet copy. Bowser has the same basic, common dog characteristics as Chet, but he is his own self, and a great new start for a series. He lives on the bayou, where Chet only visited once, and has different talents. His human is Birdie, a plucky 11-year-old who deserves him. The case itself was a little confusing, but still an enjoyable read.

Jim Frangione imbues Bowser with all the dog excitement and loyalty that he gave Chet, but not the same way, so Bowser is truly a different dog. And, expletive, if that man can't do an impressive owl and old lady! Outstanding!

A great book for kids!

Who am I kidding? I loved this book, too. It is written for kids, the main human character is 11, but it is a good story. It is told by the dog, Bowser, who is sweet and lovable. It's also a good mystery. I have already recommended it for my nephews!