Gr 2-4 Mysterious monsters live around the world, yet you wouldn't know it for sure, because the proof doesn't exist! Blizz Richards, a responsible and fun yeti from Nepal, wants it to remain this way; without the mystery, how else would people remember magic? However, a hidden existence can be lonely, so it's time for a Bigfeet reunion. With so many gathered, though, the chance of a sighting increases, especially with the determined yet not-so-bright George Vanquist hot on their trail. Blizz speaks directly to readers as he introduces his world, deftly explaining what a yeti is, as well as the nature of cryptids. These funny, made-up facts will fascinate kids. At several points, the narration switches to other characters, including the bumbling George Vanquist. Plenty of random, wacky humor is hidden under the guise of a serious tone. Of note is one ironic scene where the cryptids search for Bigfoot. Accompanying the text are equally amusing illustrations featuring circular eyes and wide-mouthed expressions. These fill much of the page and on occasion include panels. Larger spreads caption many of the objects, giving quick description to this world, as well as providing more random laughs. Fans of the "Bad Kitty" and "Captain Underpants" titles will certainly love the first in this series of illustrated chapter books. Rachel Forbes, Oakville Public Library, Ontario, Canada

Bizz Richards is a self-described great guy, loving life in his secret lair in Nepal and hanging out with his two assistants and best buddies, Gunther and Alexander. Bizz is a Yeti, one of the cryptids, the society of hidden animals whose existence has never been proven, all of whom have taken an oath to keep themselves that way. But remaining hidden can be tricky, as cryptozoologists lurk everywhere waiting for an opportunity to snap a picture of a mythical creature. This first title in the Yeti Files series recounts Bizz's search for his missing cousin, Brian, who went into hiding after having his photo taken and published by the persistent, if bumbling, cryptozoologist George Vanquist. A Bigfeet family reunion is happening at Brian's old hideout in Canada, and Bizz is determined to find him and bring him along. This fast-paced and funny tale is told in comics-style panels and labeled black-and-white illustrations of goofy monsters and cartoonish villains. Good stuff for readers beginning to move into chapter books.

Blizz the yeti is just one of many cryptids living in hiding. When Blizz's cousin Brian gets caught on camera and disappears, Blizz must travel from Nepal to British Columbia to find him. Sherry's humorous comics-style illustrations propel the tale forward full tilt, while doofy creatures, silly dialogue, and sly visual jokes will keep readers laughing.