First published 2025
The Pond Squad arrives at Emerald Pond for the annual games, eager to compete in sports and meet Maxwell, the popular mallard duck who lives there. Willow looks forward to making friends and enjoying the competitions. But halfway through the festivities, Maxwell disappears without explanation. The animals sense danger immediately. Plastic debris floats throughout the pond, and Willow believes these strange items threaten Maxwell's safety. Detective Duck steps forward to solve the mystery before environmental damage spreads to other habitats. The Pond Squad must unite their efforts to locate the missing mallard and restore their polluted surroundings. This adventure tests their detective skills and their commitment to protecting the natural world they call home.
Genres: animals, adventure, mystery, detective
Vibes: emotional, suspenseful, thought-provoking, whimsical
Tropes: detective, found-family, mystery
Setting: Emerald Pond
80 pages · Hardcover · Harry N. Abrams