The story is about two siblings who used to fight each other but now work together to fight “crime,” which seem to be silly, scary shadows on the walls or chores they are sent to do. They recognize it’s not easy work to get things done, but they realize they must work together to complete their task. It doesn’t have the material to teach many literary elements. The artwork drew my attention because the artist uses very few colors (only yellow, red, blue, white, and black) and uses some simple patterns as backgrounds. The illustrations look to be sketches, but some if it appears to be 3-D with the shadows. ( )

Jinx and her little brother Doom fight crime together in this picture-book celebration of two siblings and their games of make-believe. Having been convinced to use their powers for good, rather than evil (in other words, to cease fighting with one another), brother and sister do whatever it takes to get the bad guy (in this case, their dog) and bring him to justice (AKA, a bath). It isn't easy fighting crime, but somebody's got to do it...

Although I wouldn't say that Jinx and the Doom Fight Crime! is destined to become one of my picture-book favorites, I do appreciate it as an exploration of the importance of imaginative play in the life of children. Given the current obsession with superheroes exhibited by so many of the children who come to me at work, I think Lisa Matchev's tale will find an appreciative audience. The artwork by Samantha Cotterill, created using cut paper and then digitally assembled, is humorous and appealing, matching the lighthearted fun of the story. Recommended to anyone looking for new picture-books about children and their games of make-believe. ( )