REVIEWS

The Case of the Missing Pink Piggy by Linda Harkey, illustrated by Mike Minick, is a delightful children’s story that combines humor, heart, and a sense of playful adventure. Nini, a lovable German Shepherd, is devastated when her favorite toy goes missing. With the help of her trusty brother, Lobo, she embarks on a snowy backyard investigation that’s full of surprises, clever clues, and giggle-worthy moments.

Harkey’s storytelling is charming and accessible for young readers, capturing the excitement and determination of Nini and Lobo’s search. The story emphasizes important values such as friendship, honesty, and perseverance while keeping the narrative lighthearted and engaging. Minick’s illustrations enhance the reading experience, providing visual delight and bringing the characters to life.

A standout feature of this book is the included reading and activity guide, which encourages children to interact with the story, fostering comprehension and creativity. This makes it a wonderful resource for parents and educators looking to extend the fun beyond the pages.

At its core, The Case of the Missing Pink Piggy is a heartwarming tale that demonstrates that even small adventures can lead to big lessons and happy endings. It’s perfect for preschoolers and grade school readers who love animals, mystery, and playful storytelling.

—Reviewed by Micheal Drew / 5 Stars / Goodreads

What a cute, fun story, with adorable graphics. As a kindergarten teacher, I read a lot of stories in my day and my kiddos would love this book. I appreciated how the author incorporated activities at the end of the book. It was a great addition!

Would you purchase this book for yourself or a friend? Yes
Will you recommend this book/author to your audience? Yes

—Reviewed by Alison Coak / 4 Stars / Goodreads

Such a cute adventure following two dogs (adorable!) looking for a squeeze toy. It is a simple read, perfect for the youngest children but nonetheless I was hooked since the beginning given that in my house the dog toys disappear (and reappear) easily. I imagined my dog on this kind of adventure and it was so cute. Plus, at the end of the book there's a good bunch of activities like crosswords, word search or ideas for a game with friends... I think is a really good story and a perfect book to have on your bookshelf or at school.

Are you interested in connecting with this author (interviews, events, etc)? Yes
Would you purchase this book for yourself or a friend? Yes
Will you recommend this book/author to your audience? Yes

—Reviewed by Sara Bacco / 5 Stars / Goodreads

The Case of the Missing Pink Piggy is a sweet and funny tale that celebrates friendship, honesty, and perseverance, reminding young readers that even the smallest adventures can lead to the biggest lessons -- and the happiest endings.

Of special note is the inclusion of a free reading and activity guide at the end of the book where preschool readers and grade school readers can explore fun activities based on this story.

Critique: An original, colorful, and a fun read from start to finish, The Case of the Missing Pink Piggy by author/storyteller Linda Harkey and artist/illustrator Mike Minick is an especially and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school and community library picture book collections for children ages 3-10. It should be noted that this consumable paperback edition of The Case of the Missing Pink Piggy from Story Monsters Press is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99, Amazon).

—Reviewed by James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief, Midwest Book Review

“This was a fun story that was a cosy mystery to solve the case of the Missing Pink Piggy squeaky toy - the dogs Nini and Lobo are on the case after Nini loses her favourite toy, the story was easy to follow and understand. There is also a free reading and activity guide at the end of the book where you can explore fun tasks based on the story. I loved the wordsearch at the end.”

—Reviewed by Donna Maguire - Goodreads and Amazon

In this delightfully imagined tale, a pair of German Shepherd siblings work with their friend, a pack rat, when the favorite toy of one of the dogs goes missing. Illustrates feelings of loss and how friendship can help one find and restore what is missing.

Would you purchase this book for yourself or a friend? Yes

Will you recommend this book/author to your audience? Yes

—Reviewed by Mallory Anne-Marie Haws, 5 Stars

Asian Independent Film Festival Award 2026

The Case of the Missing Pink Piggy (Audiobook Edition)

Best Original Story