Troubles in Bottles

Content : Sixth title in the “Graphic Investigation” series, following young detectives tackling environmental issues with plenty of humour.

Troubles in Bottles takes place in a village facing heatwaves as early as May. At first, there’s no problem — the village has a natural water source. But as the drought worsens, water restrictions are imposed, and sometimes the taps run dry. However, Lynn notices that the nearby factory keeps shipping large quantities of bottled water. Together with her friends Bilal and Maya, she decides to investigate. Brave Lynn leads them into the forest, where they discover the factory is still drawing water to fill bottles for sale, despite the restrictions. Maya, a little more cautious but very observant, spots important clues, while pragmatic Bilal thinks about asking for help. The three of them alert their teacher, two hydrologists, and even the mayor, to stop these illegal practices. More than just an investigation, their adventure shows their courage and strong sense of justice.
Two documentary pages complement the story, providing more detailed information on the topic.

About the author: Elsa Valentin is a well-known author celebrated for her original work in children’s literature. A former teacher, she is passionate about writing stories that celebrate imagination and play with language. Her writing is marked by inventiveness, a keen sense of rhythm, and carefully chosen words that awaken the minds of young readers. She explores a wide range of themes, from everyday childhood experiences to socially engaged topics, always weaving in a poetic and playful dimension that encourages reflection. Her commitment to environmental issues makes her the perfect author for this book. This is her first title with Kilowatt.

About the illustrator: Leen Degezelle is a young Belgian illustrator currently based in Brittany, France. Her work is distinguished by an expressive and bold graphic style. Passionate about vibrant colours and dynamic compositions, she creates visual worlds that capture young readers’ attention and bring stories to life with a unique energy. Sensitive to contemporary and engaged themes, Leen enjoys exploring narratives that combine humour and depth, while adding a touch of freshness and originality.