In this slapstick illustrated crime adventure, the honest Theo Pincher who doesn't fit in to his family of criminals finds a clever way to save the family dog, Sherlock, from the nasty new police officer.

The new police officer Clive is not nice--even the other police are afraid of him. Everything, even the dog, must have a receipt to prove there's no stealing going on. Things without receipts are locked up.

Of course, Theo's family don't have a receipt for anything, especially not their dog Sherlock. When Sherlock is caught, Theo makes a plan to get him back using cooking oil, a dog onesie, and cunning--a plan so good that it reveals Clive's true identity and gives him the comeuppance he deserves. Even Theo's family are impressed.

This criminally funny tale contains a break-in at the candy store, an interrogation, and a super-smart plan--with comical commentary from the dog, who thinks his name is Shuddup Sherlock.

Praise for The Pinchers:
"If you are looking for a goofy, good fun beginning chapter book reader series, pinch this book. Criminally good writing, illustrations, and design."--Jon Scieszka, US National Ambassador for Young Peoples Literature

"Ingenious, well-written and with absolutely wonderful illustrations. We enjoy stories where we both giggle and nod thoughtfully . . . . Criminally good!" Crimetime Award for Children's Detective of the Year 2022