I still love this series and its characters so much, but this is my least liked of the books. I did like how ruthless the fish mafia characters were. when fishy dude devolved Malone. i was like COLD!

3.5 ( )

This is my first Cat Ninja book and...let's just say it's quite the ride.

Dad has bought a house in the suburbs, which means a move from Metro City to a quieter area. While there is a bit of rough adjustment (friends, area, and such), most neighbors are friendly enough, but when one brings over a pet fish as a present, the adventure begins. The fish is a henchman for the evil Godfather (fish-mafia), and when Mr. Squeaks disappears, Cat Ninja needs to face down the threat. But there's more to the mafia than meets the eye.

Although the fourth in the series, this book can be picked up and read on its own without too much trouble sinking in. The reader does get a chance to discover the newness of everything, since the family is just moving into the new neighborhood and has some 'new' beginnings themselves. The situations do ring a bit of familiarity for anyone having to find new friends and steering the waters of divorced parents, but that's not the main thrust. This one is all about action and fun and intrigue and...well, super-spy adventure.

The illustrations are bright and bold or carry just the right amount of secret dimness, letting the atmosphere of each situation come across nicely. It's wonderful to see the characters in action with all of their various personality quirks. Even the bad guys shine, especially since there are additional panels to give a little backstory on each one. And the text gives what is needed and lets the illustrations do the rest. The entire thing does end with a bit of a cliff-hanger...so the next book won't be a stand-alone? We'll see.

I enjoyed this one quite a bit, but then, it's not hard to adore ninja cats, clever hamsters, and the rest of the crew. ( )