Olivia's toy is missing, and she looks for it. That's it.

The art is unattractive and even goes for straight-on horror for a few pages.

The only thing that made the book even remotely interesting was the expression on Olivia's mother's face when she dislikes what her husband is saying near the end of the story.

When I first read this book to my daughter back in 2005, she liked it more than I did, giving it a thumbs up. ( )

Olivia's mom makes her a red soccer shirt (even though she won't match her teammates) because she doesn't like green. *rolls eyes* I know Olivia is supposed to be charming and endearing, but I just don't like her. ( )

Olivia's favorite toy is lost and she is determined to find out answers: where has it gone and who took it away?

This book was an interesting enough read. It started out just a wee too long for young readers with lots of backstory about the toy. But then it moved along to the mystery aspect, ultimately landing on a satisfying conclusion. A good mystery should always be rewarding in its payout and this one does deliver. It also manages to incorporate some small elements of the classic noir while staying child friendly.

My hesitation with more wholeheartedly recommending this book is that Olivia acts a bit bratty/spoiled in certain parts. By the end, she's behaved a little better but it's not really addressed how some of her previous actions weren't the best. ( )

About as cute as the original Olivia book. Dame Edna narrates this audiobook. ( )

From Hornbook review copies. ( )