The Crayon Caper

By Katie Baron

When the crayons disappear, Charlie and Archer the therapy dog are on the case

Charlie loves drawing dragons and taking notes-it helps him make sense of the world. So when crayons start vanishing from Mrs. Percy's classroom, he knows exactly what to do: grab his notebook and watch Archer work.

Archer's golden fur and therapy dog vest make everyone smile, but Charlie notices something more. The way Archer's tail wags, how his ears perk up, where his nose leads him - Archer sees clues humans miss.

Together, they follow glitter trails through reading corners and discover mysterious lists hidden behind books. But the deeper Charlie digs, the more puzzling it gets. Someone's wrapping crayons in lavender-scented tissues and writing fancy tags. Someone's leaving sparkly cards for kindergarteners signed "From a Secret Friend."

Maya thinks the crayon thief doesn't want to share. Sadie's sure someone's being mean. But Charlie's starting to wonder: What if the person taking things is actually trying to give them away?

Sometimes the biggest mysteries have the kindest hearts - and sometimes being different is exactly what makes you the perfect detective.

The Crayon Caper, Book 1 in the Archer the Therapy Dog Mysteries series, is a cozy, illustrated chapter-book mystery for kids transitioning from picture books to chapter books. Readers will also discover real therapy dog facts woven into the story. Written at a 2nd-5th grade reading level for ages 7-11, it features short chapters, kid-friendly language, a kid-safe mystery with light suspense. Includes a QR code link to free Educator Resources on the author's website.

Social-Emotional Learning themes: Anxiety and worryEmpathy and kindnessFriendship and repairing hurt feelingsHonesty, bravery, and making things rightProblem-solving and responsible decision-making

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0GQNB9YGZ
• ISBN13: 9798999741400
• Release Date: March 2026
• Publisher: Archer Dog Books
• Length: 56 Pages
• Weight: 0.14 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.1" x 5.1" x 7.8"