Carmen Sandiego was wildly popular in the 1980s and 1990s. You could hardly escape her presence in computer games, TV shows, and a myriad of other products that always asked the question: WHERE IN THE WORLD IS CARMEN SANDIEGO? Kids and adults learned about geography in a fun way through the adventures of this mysterious lady topped with a red hat. Her mission was always to steal what thieves already stole and bring good to the world.

Carmen returns to enthrall a new generation in a a live action film slated for 2020. For now you can watch her in the Netflix original animated series and read the first book, WHO IN THE WORLD IS CARMEN SANDIEGO. Each reveals how Carmen became a thief and also how she got her unusual name.

The book is a fun look at her start in life, likely more interesting for those of us familiar with the character. Carmen is a strong heroine who inspires kids to learn about the world and its many cultures. More titles will follow later this year and beyond.

I have fond memories of playing the computer game myself, and look forward to seeing Carmen enrich middle grade kids once more with her enticing travels and exploits.