Horn Book Review
In the twentieth book about Hank the Cowdog, Hank relates the story of how he rid the ranch of a phantom before the annual Christmas party. Though humorous, the story is cluttered and confusing. From HORN BOOK 1993, (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
Ages 5-8. For a four-footed canine detective whose shtick is stupidity, Hank the Cowdog (who previously appeared in The Case of the Hooking Bull [BKL Je 15 92] and The Case of the Midnight Rustler [BKL My 15 93]) has a certain flat-footed charm. Here, Hank valiantly defends the ranch against a phantom dog who resides in a mirror. Listeners instantly recognize the villain as our hero's own reflection, even if the ever-obtuse Hank doesn't: "He was arrogant, overbearing, pompous, and not very smart." Author Erikson's delivery is droll but deliberate, and the story does meander a bit, but kids on a car trip will probably happily follow Hank along on this amusing adventure. --Kristi Beavin