Set during the movie before Belle breaks the curse. Belle finds a dusty book kicked under the shelf and takes it with her for her bedtime story. Belle, Lumiere and Wardrobe stay up late to find out what happens but are disappointed that the last chapter is missing. Until they discover they've been left a clue to find how the story ends.

This is a charming little tale for the readers in all of us. Book lovers will undoubtedly relate to the wish to just finish one more page and the happiness Belle finds in the library. The treasure hunt clues were easy to follow but added a touch of whimsy to the narrative. My favourite bit though;

The Beast’s eyes widened. “She is so angry with me!” he cried. “How will I make it up to her?” He sank into a large chair, his head in his paws.
“Build her another library?” joked Lumiere. Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, and even Chip glared at him. “Sorry,” said Lumiere sheepishly.

Disney Book Group. Belle: The Mysterious Message (Chapter Book) (pp. 76-77). Disney Book Group. Kindle Edition.

Oh if only.

4 stars. ( )

This short novel takes place somewhere in the middle of Beauty and The Beast, Belle’s settled into life at the castle but hasn’t yet gotten to know Beast well enough to break the curse.

A solid choice for kids just getting started with chapter books, it includes the occasional illustration and a somewhat interactive story as the characters try to locate the missing final chapter of a story by banding together to solve riddles that the reader might take guesses at as well. And if you enjoyed the always adorable Chip and the rest of the gang from the movie, they’re all here as well. ( )