Nate the Great and the Missing Tomatoes

In this early-grade chapter book, Nate the Great a sharp-witted kid detective and his dog Sludge are called on to find out who stole Rosamond's tomatoes right before a neighborhood garden contest. The missing produce threatens the competition's grand prize, a ribbon, newspaper coverage, and a meal at Ned's Diner, so Nate must sort through clues and interview the other young gardeners. The short, simple narrative keeps the focus on problem-solving and humor while giving emerging readers an accessible mystery. The story is part of the long-running Nate the Great series, known for its straightforward language and engaging puzzles.