Shy thirteen-year-old Bree must channel her inner anime heroine to solve a crime at the Anime Expo.
Bree Wong and her best friend, Alix, are so excited to be at the anime fan convention. They’re dressed as the lead characters from their favourite anime series. Bree cosplays as Red Squirrel, the redheaded detective, and can’t wait to meet Midori, the Japanese voice actor for the character. But before she gets the chance, it’s announced that Midori’s signing event has been cancelled.
Bree is devastated. So when she overhears that a valuable original print of Red Squirrel belonging to Midori has been stolen, she decides to investigate and catch the thief. Maybe Bree can get a face-to-face with Midori if she recovers the stolen print. The only problem is the culprit was seen wearing a cosplay costume. Not just any costume, but one of the most popular characters at the convention. Bree must channel Red Squirrel and get to the bottom of this or lose her chance to meet her idol. What a tough nut to crack!
"Simple vocabulary and quick pacing make the story a good fit for struggling readers. Rife with references to anime and fan culture, a mystery sure to entice readers."
- Kirkus Reviews
"Chan touches upon many societal issues, such as anxiety and gender identity, as well as friendship and acceptance...A good read, one hard to put down. Highly recommended."
- CM: Canadian Review of Materials
"This book can be used in small group discussions on social anxiety and how to maintain individuality amid adversity. English teachers will enjoy the imagery of the gamers room. Furthermore, the short text will suit reluctant or striving readers…Anime and manga fans will appreciate the references to popular stories combined with sweet friendship and realistic mystery."
- School Library Journal