Published by DK Children

Summary:  Kiki is tinkering with a bicycle near her home in Ghana when she gets the signal that the Secret Explorers have a mission.  When they’re all gathered, they learn that they’ve been assigned to the Arctic, and Kiki and marine specialist Connor are the two chosen to go.  When they get there, they find a ship stuck in the ice and learn that one of the scientists has gone missing.  As they carry out their rescue mission, they learn a lot about the polar environment, and have a close encounter with a polar bear.  Not only do they find the scientist, but Kiki’s engineering skills allow them to free the ship from the ice as well.  Includes additional information on the Arctic, the people who live there, and polar bears; a quiz; and a glossary.  128 pages; grades 2-4.

Pros:  Somehow I’ve missed this series until this book, #7, which got a starred review from School Library Journal.  Kids who like science and reading nonfiction will enjoy learning all the facts that are woven into the story and given in the backmatter.  There’s a diverse cast of characters that apparently answer the call from all around the globe when there’s a new mission. I was a little vague as to the group works, so definitely start with book 1.

Cons:  Even though there are plenty of illustrations, there’s no credit given on the cover or title page. Unless SJ King is also the illustrator?