In Stefanie Gamarra's Jibberjack, Fibberjack: A Made-Up Monster Mystery, the small town of Rumorridge is in a panic over reports of a mysterious creature called the Jibberjack. Frida, a sharp-eyed young detective who refuses to believe what she’s told without proof, starts gathering clues while adults spiral into fear and confusion. As livestock vanishes, the mayor seizes the chance to control the situation with new rules, public speeches, and monster traps he suspiciously already had in stock. Frida notices odd details—familiar smells, muddy footprints, and timing that doesn’t add up—and starts to suspect the real monster might not have claws or fur at all. To uncover the truth, she sets a clever trap of her own—not for the Jibberjack everyone fears, but for the Fibberjack she believes is behind it. Jibberjack, Fibberjack: A Made-Up Monster Mystery, written by Stefanie Gamarra and illustrated by Marta Pilosio, is a witty and inventive story that turns small-town gossip into a brilliant investigation. Young Frida’s sharp mind and refusal to be dismissed by adults make her a standout hero, especially as she pieces together clues about a so-called monster that seems to frighten everyone but her. The dialogue is age-appropriate with wit that elevates the story, and good twists right down to the moment when the real culprit is caught. The illustrations are in a bold cartoon style that breathes life into each scene, and on every page. Frida’s confidence and cleverness make this book a genuine delight to read and one that will stay with readers of any age. Very highly recommended.

In Gamarra’s illustrated children’s book, government-driven fear spreads faster than facts, but one child is determined to find the truth. The town of Rumorridge is rife with rumors of a monster called the Jibberjack. However, Frida Fitzgerald, an aspiring “Truth Detective,” grows suspicious when the mayor, Theodore Tazzleworm, declares the monster real and says that everyone must stay indoors after dark, build traps, and clap extra loudly at town meetings (he “loves applause”). When two pigs, Carl and Carla, go missing, the fear campaign escalates. Armed with a notebook, Frida begins documenting clues and testing theories: “She had an idea to solve the monster mystery. But to be sure, she needed to set a trap.” The book doubles as a sharp lesson on misinformation, teaching children to question authority, examine evidence, and think critically. Gamarra’s narrative encourages active engagement, showing the advantages of careful observation and rational inquiry. Pilosio’s illustrations complement the story fantastically: Adults appear angular and performative, while Frida, with an adorable short black bob and bangs, is expressive and determined. Small visual details, such as a “No Monsters” protest sign, cleverly shape the book’s message. Back-matter discussion prompts and a “Become a Truth Detective” checklist offer practical and engaging guidance for children and caregivers. A playful and timely tale that teaches kids how to spot fearmongering and follow evidence.