Emil and the Detectives

by Erich Kästner
Emil and the Detectives cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Children's Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 835
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9780099413127
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2001-01-01
  • Formats: 39
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £5.99–£7.99

Emil and the Detectives is a classic children's novel that follows the story of a young boy named Emil who travels to Berlin with a large sum of money. When the money is stolen by a cunning thief, Emil teams up with a group of resourceful children to track down the culprit. Together, they use their wit and teamwork to outsmart the thief and recover the stolen money. The book is celebrated for its engaging plot and memorable characters, making it a timeless adventure story for young readers. /n/n The novel was first published in 1929 and has since become a beloved classic, translated into numerous languages. It is known for its themes of friendship, bravery, and the power of collective effort. The story's setting in Berlin adds a rich historical and cultural backdrop, enhancing the adventure and making it even more captivating for readers.

Reviews
Vince Review · 2024-08-08
thought-provoking 4.20

The book explores themes of the value of money and the chasm between the rich and poor, which remain relevant today.

The reviewer appreciates the underlying themes of the value of money and the chasm between the rich and poor, which are explored in the book. They note that these themes are still relevant today, making the story timeless. The reviewer also highlights the clever dialogue and the engaging narrative that keep readers invested in the story. The book is seen as a thought-provoking adventure that resonates with readers of all ages.

Quick quotes

    An underlying theme is the value of money, and sad chasms between the rich and poor.

    Nothing much has changed.

    The clever dialogue and the engaging narrative keep readers invested in the story.

Vishy the Knight · Vishy · 2019-11-29
charming 4.50

The book is described as charming, engaging, and fast-paced, with wonderful characters and events that keep readers hooked.

The reviewer finds 'Emil and the Detectives' to be a charming story that is very engaging and fast-paced. They appreciate the wonderful characters and events that make the book enjoyable to read. The reviewer highlights the clever plot and the way the characters work together to outsmart the thief, making it a delightful adventure. The book is seen as a classic that continues to captivate readers with its timeless themes and engaging narrative.

Quick quotes

    'Emil and the Detectives' is a charming story.

    It is very engaging, fast-paced and filled with wonderful characters and events.

    The clever plot and the way the characters work together to outsmart the thief make it a delightful adventure.

The Guardian · 2013-12-23
thrilling 4.00

The story is praised for its thrilling narrative and the clever way Emil takes charge as both victim and detective. It's seen as a comfort read that stands the test of time.

The reviewer highlights the enduring appeal of the story, noting its thrilling plot and the clever way Emil takes charge as both victim and detective. They appreciate the book's ability to engage readers with its fast-paced adventure and the clever tactics used to catch the thief. The story is seen as a comfort read that remains relevant and enjoyable over time. The reviewer also mentions the exotic setting and the sophisticated language, which add to the book's charm and make it a timeless classic.

Quick quotes

    A thrilling story of a robbery, and the tracking and exposing of the thief – with Emil himself as both victim and detective.

    It's a comfort read that stands the test of time.

    The exotic setting and sophisticated language add to the book's charm.

Appears in Lists