Missing jewelry, a false accusation, and a real thief. Shamus the Urban Rez Dog, P.I. is on the case.
The name’s Shamus. I’m a special kind of dog known as a Rez Dog. That means I’m a mix of different breeds and I come from a reserve. I live in the city with Mom and the twins, Rainey and Cole. We are one of many Indigenous families on our block.
Life is great — until Mom is falsely accused of stealing from the jewelry store she’s worked at for years. When the kids and I set out to catch the real thief, we discover some surprising and, if I do say so myself, hilarious clues — including a false wall, a lucky bowling ball, and a vicious poodle named Hepzibah!
Chocolate Lily Award | 2025 | Winner
City of Victoria Children's Book Prize | 2024 | Short-listed
“Leslie Gentile has written a touching novel with a unique narrator.”
“Have you ever wanted to read a perfect detective story for animal lovers written from the perspective of a dog? Well, if you do, read this book! I give this book five stars because it’s very entertaining and captivating.”
“A fun detective story featuring a pretty wild doggo, Shamus the Urban Rez Dog, P.I. by Leslie Gentile is a story that will be easily gobbled up.”
“Shamus is not just a sidekick; he is the true star of Shamus the Urban Rez Dog, P.I. Leslie Gentile gives a voice to rescue dogs through this engaging story. ... Gentile skillfully incorporates comic relief through Shamus's antics at key moments, leaving readers with smiles during these lighthearted instances. With red herrings, unexpected plot twists, and an unlikely suspect, the book offers an unpredictable whodunit read. Mystery and dog lovers alike should not miss Shamus the Urban Rez Dog, P.I.”