Belly Up

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Belly Up

by Stuart Gibbs

Belly Up drops you right into a wild mystery at FunJungle, an enormous new zoo where the star hippo, Henry, has just kicked the bucket. Twelve-year-old Teddy Fitzroy, newly arrived with his zoologist parents, immediately smells a rat (or rather, something far more sinister than natural causes). The adults in charge want to sweep it under the rug, but Teddy, with his sharp observations and a knack for getting into trouble, isn't having it. He teams up with Summer, the zoo owner's feisty daughter, to dig into the truth. This book is a fast-paced, genuinely intriguing read, full of quirky characters and surprising twists. It feels like you're right there with Teddy, piecing together clues and navigating a world of secrets and potential danger. It's perfect for readers who love a good, clever mystery, especially one with an underdog protagonist and a unique, adventurous setting.

10 Books similar to 'Belly Up'

If you enjoyed the thrill of Teddy's investigation in Belly Up, you're in luck. We've gathered more books that feature clever young protagonists unraveling big secrets, often in unique and adventurous settings. Whether you're drawn to the quirky animal-centric mysteries of Carl Hiaasen's Chomp and Hoot, or the puzzle-solving brilliance found in Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library and The Westing Game, these recommendations share that satisfying blend of suspense, humor, and an underdog spirit. You'll find more high-stakes investigations, unlikely friendships, and the delightful challenge of figuring out who's telling the truth, and who's hiding something.

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Chomp
Chomp

by Carl Hiaasen

Fans of "Belly Up" will appreciate Hiaasen's signature blend of environmental themes, quirky characters, and laugh-out-loud humor, all wrapped around an adventurous mystery involving a reality TV show and a dangerous animal. The young protagonist's cleverness in navigating wild situations mirrors Teddy's resourcefulness.

Hoot
Hoot

by Carl Hiaasen

This book shares "Belly Up's" spirit of young protagonists standing up for animals and uncovering a conspiracy, but with an environmental focus on protecting owls. Hiaasen's witty narrative and a compelling mystery will resonate with readers who enjoyed Gibbs' blend of humor and suspense.

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library

by Chris Grabenstein

While not animal-centric, this book offers a thrilling, puzzle-filled mystery where clever kids must use their wits to solve challenges in a fantastical library. The fast-paced plot, engaging characters, and lighthearted tone are very similar to the problem-solving fun in "Belly Up."

The Westing Game
The Westing Game

by Ellen Raskin

This Newbery Medal winner is a classic ensemble mystery where a group of eccentric heirs must solve a complex puzzle to inherit a fortune. Its intricate plot, clever clues, and diverse cast of characters will appeal to readers who enjoy the intellectual challenge and character interactions in "Belly Up."

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Poached
Poached

by Stuart Gibbs

As the direct sequel to "Belly Up," this book continues Teddy Fitzwilliam's adventures at FunJungle, where he must solve another animal-related mystery, this time involving a stolen koala. Readers will love revisiting the familiar characters, setting, and Gibbs' signature blend of humor and suspense.

Spy School
Spy School

by Stuart Gibbs

From the same author, this series features a young protagonist, Ben Ripley, who is recruited to a secret spy school and quickly finds himself embroiled in a real-life mystery. Fans of "Belly Up" will enjoy the similar fast-paced plot, humorous tone, and the clever, underdog protagonist solving a high-stakes crime.

Framed!
Framed!

by James Ponti

This book introduces Florian Bates, a kid who uses his unique "TOAST" (Theory of All Small Things) method to solve mysteries, leading him to uncover an art heist. The clever young detective, engaging mystery, and witty narrative make it a perfect fit for readers who enjoy Teddy's investigative prowess in "Belly Up."

Masterminds
Masterminds

by Gordon Korman

This thrilling series follows a group of seemingly perfect kids who discover their idyllic town hides a dark secret about their origins, leading them to uncover a massive conspiracy. The blend of mystery, suspense, and a group of young protagonists working together will appeal to fans of "Belly Up's" investigative spirit.

From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler

by E.L. Konigsburg

This Newbery Medal winner features two siblings who run away to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art and become entangled in a mystery surrounding a valuable statue. The clever problem-solving, unique setting, and witty narrative voice will charm readers who enjoy "Belly Up's" adventurous and mysterious elements.

The Case of the Missing Marquess (Enola Holmes Mysteries #1)

by Nancy Springer

This book introduces Sherlock Holmes's younger sister, Enola, who proves to be a brilliant detective in her own right, solving mysteries in Victorian England. Readers who enjoy a clever young protagonist unraveling secrets with wit and determination, much like Teddy in "Belly Up," will find Enola's adventures captivating.