The Pinchers and the Dog Chase

In this slapstick illustrated crime adventure, the honest Theo Pincher who doesn't fit in to his family of criminals finds a clever way to save the family dog, Sherlock, from the nasty new police officer.

The new police officer Clive is not nice—even the other police are afraid of him. Everything, even the dog, must have a receipt to prove there's no stealing going on. Things without receipts are locked up.

Of course, Theo's family don't have a receipt for anything, especially not their dog Sherlock. When Sherlock is caught, Theo makes a plan to get him back using cooking oil, a dog onesie, and cunning—a plan so good that it reveals Clive's true identity and gives him the comeuppance he deserves. Even Theo's family are impressed.

This criminally funny tale contains a break-in at the candy store, an interrogation, and a super-smart plan—with comical commentary from the dog, who thinks his name is Shuddup Sherlock.

Praise for The Pinchers:
"If you are looking for a goofy, good fun beginning chapter book reader series, pinch this book. Criminally good writing, illustrations, and design."—Jon Scieszka, US National Ambassador for Young Peoples Literature

"Ingenious, well-written and with absolutely wonderful illustrations. We enjoy stories where we both giggle and nod thoughtfully . . . . Criminally good!" Crimetime Award for Children's Detective of the Year 2022