Head-to-head
The Bad Guys in Open Wide and Say Arrrgh! vs InvestiGators
Both are pun-filled graphic novel series for ages 6-9, featuring unlikely heroes in ridiculous situations with visual comedy on every page.
The Bad Guys in Open Wide and Say Arrrgh!
by Aaron Blabey
Fast, funny space adventure where the Bad Guys learn that first impressions can be dangerously wrong
InvestiGators
by John Patrick Green
Two alligator spies, toilet-based travel, and more puns than you can shake a tail at
Score comparison
| Score | The Bad Guys in Open Wide and Say Arrrgh! | InvestiGators | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kid Score | 72 | 72 | Tied |
| Parent Score | 51 | 51 | Tied |
| Teacher Score | 53 | 57 | InvestiGators (+4) |
✓ The Bad Guys in Open Wide and Say Arrrgh! — perfect for
- •fans of the Bad Guys series
- •reluctant readers who need visual storytelling
- •kids who love absurdist humor and space adventures
- •readers aged 7-10 who enjoy fast-paced graphic novels
✓ InvestiGators — perfect for
- •Kids who love Dog Man
- •Captain Underpants
- •or Bad Guys — graphic novel readers who want a mystery with nonstop laughs and clever wordplay. Also great for reluctant readers who need a visual
- •funny
- •fast-paced entry point into independent reading.
Our take
There's no universal winner here — the right pick depends on who's reading. Both books score the same with kids — pick on vibe.
Still not sure? Take the 2-minute SPARK quiz — we'll pick the one that fits your specific kid's reading personality.
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