The Hundred and One Dalmatians by Dodie Smith

We happened to find this book at a library sale. This original, non-Disney version is really pretty good. The description on the cover calls it "A comedy -- a mystery -- a thriller!" And it's exactly right. The characters are more interesting than in the Disney movie, and Cruella de Vil might be a bit more evil (though she's pretty scary in both). We enjoyed this, and will add it to our list.