Case of the Sabotaged Spaghetti (Rourkes Mystery Chapter Books) by Jessica Anderson

This chapter book mystery explores the social dynamics of elementary school through the eyes of Klaude, a class clown who unexpectedly wins a Golden Spoon Award for proper lunchroom behavior. When his celebration turns sour with sabotaged spaghetti and a broken trophy, young readers are drawn into a classic whodunit that thoughtfully examines how recognition can unintentionally create friction among peers. The school setting provides a relatable backdrop for this gentle detective story that balances light humor with genuine emotional stakes.

What sets this story apart is its nuanced portrayal of classroom relationships and the unspoken rules of childhood friendships. Children who enjoy solving puzzles will appreciate the clues scattered throughout, while the story naturally opens conversations about empathy, jealousy, and finding one's place in a group. The resolution offers satisfying closure while acknowledging the complexity of social interactions, making this particularly valuable for readers navigating their own school friendships and learning that laughter isn't always the best medicine for every situation.