Reviews

King & Kayla and the Case of the Secret Code by Dori Hillestad Butler

bickie's review against another edition

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3.0

Fun mystery involving a letter written with cut-out letters that do not make any sense. Kayla methodically works with her friend Mason to solve the mystery of who left the letter and what it means (they figure out it's in code). Meanwhile, King, Kayla's dog, tries to help, but the humans do not understand what he is trying to tell them. Good for ages 7-8 or younger more advanced readers.

readingthroughtheages's review against another edition

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4.0

I am very excited for this new series by Dori Hillestad Butler. Featuring the same character from her Buddy Files series, but it takes place before that series, back when he was King the Dog.
Featuring a predicable plot line and structure, this series is perfect for readers who are ready for a longer story line across chapters, yet still need some supports.

heisereads's review against another edition

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5.0

A fabulous early chapter book that will especially appeal to kids who like dogs. Told from the dog's point-of-view, there are laugh out loud moments as King figures out the mystery before Kayla does. With a diverse cast of characters, this is a must-have for any 1st-3rd classroom with predictable structure and a mystery to solve through multiple chapters.

azajacks's review against another edition

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4.0

I support independent bookstores. You can use this link to find one near you: http://www.indiebound.org

erine's review against another edition

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4.0

A short, simple mystery for very beginning readers.

jmshirtz's review against another edition

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5.0

I love this series! This is my favorite one so far. I loved the introduction of a simple code that readers could absolutely use to create their own secret messages. Also, the miscommunication between King and Kayla regarding what he wants is continuously amusing.

tammyd's review

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funny hopeful lighthearted fast-paced
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

bethmitcham's review

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4.0

The narration by the dog means that we don't have to wait for the kids to solve the clue -- King decyphers the note using his nose very quickly (not as quickly as me, cough cough). Some kids would like that but I think mine would've resented it.

jillb30442's review

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5.0

I just love this early middle-grade series! Clever mystery, wonderful interplay of dog/human communication and miscommunication, and sweet illustrations. Can't wait for #3!
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