What’s the book about?
A hilarious new series from Australia’s favourite comedian, Peter Helliar, about Galileo – a horse with talent for solving crimes.
For as long as he can remember, it has been Galileo’s dream to become a police horse. But when his dream comes true, he soon realises he’s not there to solve crimes – he’s just a vehicle to carry around the ‘real’ human detectives. When Galileo witnesses a crime, he decides to take matters into his own hands. He has a lot to learn, but each crime he solves is sure to take him one step closer to becoming a real detective …
Recommended for:
Ages 7+
Three reasons to read it:
- Yes, a horse, but not just any horse. Galileo has always dreamed of being a police horse who actually solves crimes—not just clip-clopping behind a human with a badge. He’s smart, determined, and has the nose (well, maybe the snout?) for sniffing out clues and cracking cases. If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if Scooby-Doo met Sherlock Holmes in a stable, this is your answer.
- Helliar is one of Australia’s funniest comedians, and it shows. The jokes land fast, the dialogue is packed with personality and Galileo’s inner thoughts are a perfect blend of awkward, earnest, and absolutely hysterical. You’ll be giggling on every page, especially when Galileo tries to “blend in” or gets caught in yet another detective-themed disaster.
- From Galileo’s wide-eyed determination to chaotic crime scenes and confused detectives, the illustrations add a fresh burst of fun to every page. They’re dynamic, expressive and full of movement, making the book a perfect mix of novel and graphic storytelling. This isn’t just a story you read; it’s one you see unfolding right before your eyes.
Buy a copy of Detective Galileo here.
About the author:
Pete Helliar is one of Australia’s favourite comedians and the bestselling author of Frankie Fish. He is a regular on Have You Been Paying Attention?, was a contestant on the 2023 season of I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here and guest judge on the return season of Thank God You’re Here. He is currently appearing on Amazing Race Australia – with his wife Bridget – and Taskmaster Australia.
Andrew Joyner is an illustrator, author and cartoonist based in Strathalbyn, South Australia. His much-loved books include The Terrible Plop and Mary & Marcus (both written by Ursula Dubosarsky), The Swap (written by Jan Ormerod) and The Bum Book (written by Kate Mayes).














Leave a Reply