Book Review: Searching for Lucky #3002 (Ben & Blue)

Reviewed by Lisa Parker Hayreh, PhD

Adventure and mystery combine with humor in this heartwarming middle grade book.

Ben Zither is an easy-going nine-year-old boy who loves playing soccer and trading jokes with his best friend Cooper. When Ben’s teacher assigns an in-depth project about their family, though, Ben is filled with dread. He knows nothing about his father. Every time he tries to ask his mother, she fumbles for words and changes the subject. But things begin to change after he and his mother adopt a dog named Blue. 

Ben is determined to discover his father’s identity despite his mother’s efforts to avoid this topic. Cooper agrees to help Ben, so they begin the search for clues. Surprisingly, even Blue points Ben to some uncanny hints about his father. Then, to complicate matters even further, Ben’s mother asks him to meet a man she has been seriously dating.

It turns out Blue comes with his own mysterious past. Not long after Blue joins their family, an old lady shows up asking questions about him. She claims to have met him before, yet Blue seems uninterested in her. Who is this mysterious lady? How does she know Blue? As the deadline for the family project nears, Ben is no closer to the truth and he worries how he will complete his assignment. Will the truth emerge about his father before the project is due?

Wonderfully written, this sweet story tackles the complicated topic of nontraditional families with sensitivity and humor. Ellen Melissa Cohen has created a likable and funny main character in Ben. We are compelled to join him in his search for answers both about his father and his dog Blue. Ben’s mother clearly loves her son and wants to share the truth with Ben but struggles to find the best way to do this. Ben puzzles over her awkwardness and grows more frustrated with her lack of information. 

Ben and Cooper make a fantastic team in figuring out the mysteries involved, all while finding the humor wherever they are. Ben’s extended family makes for an entertaining cast of characters that provide even more comic relief. As Ben copes with frustration, embarrassment, and uncertainty, he finds himself in some serious predicaments. The intrigue throughout the book becomes more thrilling as more details are revealed. Things become increasingly complicated for Ben and his mother as they attempt to sort out their misunderstandings—often with some hilarious results.

You will laugh along with the mishaps, gasp in suspense, and cheer for Ben and Cooper as they unravel these challenging secrets. Two thrilling mysteries in one book, woven together with a serious sense of fun and a reminder that love conquers all. An excellent read for middle schoolers & their parents looking for suspense, action, and uplifting entertainment.

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