The Case of the Beagle Burglar — Nancy Krulik

Third grader Jack has a secret -- he can talk to animals! Can they help him crack this case?

The day I found out I could talk to animals did not start out well. First, I couldn't find my lucky T-shirt. Second, my dog, Scout, dragged me around the yard chasing squirrels. And third, the squirrels threw a bunch of acorns at my head. After I was hit, I realized I could talk to animals! It sounds crazy but it's true. I could understand Scout, the squirrels, and every other animal--even bugs!

My day got even worse when my best friend Leo's homework went missing. Leo blamed Scout! I know Scout's a dog, but trust me--he did not eat Leo's homework. But how would I prove it? There was only one thing to do--I had to talk to the animals around town. It was up to me, Jack Doyle, to get a clue and solve the mystery.