When the cows are stolen from a nearby farm, Sam and Kate think it's a job for the police... until they realize that solving this strange crime will require help from the neighborhood birds and beasts. That means it's another adventure for Kate and Sam, the only humans who can speak animal language and know the secret of the magical creatures around town. But why does the strange thief steal a cow-spotted mailbox? How many thieves are there anyway? And most mysterious of all, what kind of monster is leaving huge, round footprints that smell like cheese? It's a good thing Kate and Sam get help from animals large and small as they struggle to solve these puzzles and rescue all the prisoners of the Cheesemonster. There will be beetles and robots, dragons and fairies, monsters and clues and disguises. But never fear Through darkest night and deepest swamp Sam, Kate, and their friends old and new will use all their creativity, courage, and common sense to save the day once again. The third adventure in the Kate and Sam trilogy joins the others as a perfect read-aloud to be enjoyed with children of many ages. Emphasizing the power of kindness, creativity and courage, these books are gentle enough for pre-schoolers at bedtime, but complex, humorous, and engaging enough not only for older elementary children, but even for adults reading to them.

Kate and Sam are off on another adventure - without even leaving their yard. Why are the horrible chipmunks plotting to dig a hole right into Kate and Sam's house? And what have they done to the brave worm who tries to investigate? Kate and Sam must rescue their friend and save the house, and to do so they'll have to snorkel along secret underground streams and find their way through the burrow of the Chipmunks of Doom. Luckily they have the help of old friends and new, including Nasturtium and the Fairy Godmother, as well as a pair of magic rabbits, a story-telling toad, fairies, genies, and more. And, as ever, Sam and Kate's creativity and kindness will help ensure that everything turns out happily ever after. This adventure is sweet enough to be read aloud to preschoolers, and fun enough to please fourth graders who can read it themselves.

One summer evening Kate and Sam's parents are carried off by a large, fierce yellow dragon. So Kate and Sam set out to rescue them. Along the way they learn from their pet cat how to speak with animals, and they make many friends - which is lucky, because they'll encounter wolves, robbers, angry bees, fairies, magical traps and puzzles, the yellow dragon, and more. But have no fear Sam, Kate, and their companions are kind and resourceful enough to solve any problem. This delightful adventure is engaging and original, yet never too scary - perfect for reading aloud to children of any age.