The Murderer's Ape

By: Jakob Wegelius

Narrated by: Kimberly Farr

"This may be the most charming book I’ve read all year." --The New York Times

"I don’t know when I last read a book with such pure and unalloyed pleasure." –Philip Pullman, internationally bestselling author of the His Dark Materials series

Winner of the Mildred L. Batchelder award, this is a captivating story about dark truths and heinous crimes as well as unexpected friendships, with detailed black-and-white illustrations throughout. Perfect for fans of Brian Selznick and mystery and detective stories.

Sally Jones is not only a loyal friend, she’s an extraordinary individual. In overalls or in a maharaja’s turban, this unique gorilla moves among humans without speaking but understanding everything. She and the Chief are devoted comrades who operate a cargo boat. A job they are offered pays big bucks, but the deal ends badly, and the Chief is falsely convicted of murder.

For Sally Jones this is the start of a harrowing quest for survival and to clear the Chief's name. Powerful forces are working against her, and they will do anything to protect their secrets.

Critic reviews

"Slyly funny and poignant . . . a thrilling adventure."--Caldecott Medal winner Paul O. Zelinsky

"This may be the most charming book I've read all year. It's a challenge to build a story around a protagonist who can't speak, and Wegelius does this skillfully, emphasizing qualities that make us human." — The New York Times Book Review

"Features a complex mystery, an intricately constructed narrative, and deep characters. Committed, careful readers will be richly rewarded." — Kirkus Reviews, Starred

"A richly imagined and thoroughly unique adventure." — Booklist, Starred

"A thrilling adventure. Prepare to meet the remarkable Sally Jones; you won't soon forget her."--PW, Starred

"A new animal heroine has arrived on the scene. An unusual and oddly charming adventure."--SLJ

"Award-winning Swedish writer and illustrator Jakob Wegelius weaves together a head-spinning story of mystery, intrigue, love and adventure, beautifully translated by Peter Graves."--Shelf Awareness

" . . . gorgeous, clever, and memorable."--The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Trip around the world!

Loved this story! I am planning a trip to Portugal because of it!! Thought the reading could have been slightly better, narrator like to use the same accent for everyone.

Childlike telling of an intriguing series of events

Sally Jones narration of the story's series of events uses some sophisticated language, but with a somewhat childlike viewpoint. Some of the mystery's revelations were a long time telegraphed before she puts things together for herself. Still. I like the approach for middle and high school readers.

Amazing story and an extraordinary performance!

Can't possibly be better than this! You must listen to it! And then continue with the new book "The false rose". Enjoy!