Adam Gidwitz and David Bowles continue The Unicorn Rescue Society series with book four, The Chupacabras of The Rio Grande. This is the first of the series I’ve read but it wasn’t confusing to start with book four. It does make some references to previous books though and even gives a footnote at one point to tell you which book is referenced. While the authors’ primary purpose of writing this book is to entertain, it also has some political overtones which is good to get you thinking. They also throw in many Spanish words so you can learn a bit of the language while enjoying the story. You’ll love the characters who are diverse and full of personality, especially quirky Professor Fauna who will keep you laughing. The Chupacabras of The Rio Grande is a quick and fun read that will be enjoyed by both boy and girl middle-grade readers.

Review of an Advance Reading Copy

This book was sent to Compass Book Ratings for review by Dutton Books for Young Readers

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language:  None 

Note:  Character says that an adult says bad words in Spanish but no further detail given.

Violence/Gore:  Few (5) brief incidents including child accidentally (lightly) hits head on table; character fell onto a cactus with little injury; animal pokes person with quills; animal damages merchandise and stores; plane gets damaged.

Sex/Nudity:  None

Mature Subject Matter:

Two incidents in the first few pages of rude humor (bodily functions).

Alcohol / Drug Use:

None