"Emil and the Detectives" is a children's novel written by Erich Kästner, first published in 1929. The story follows a young boy named Emil Tischbein who travels to Berlin to visit his grandmother. During his journey, he becomes a victim of theft when a man steals his money. Determined to retrieve his stolen funds, Emil enlists the help of a group of local children, who form a detective team. Together, they embark on an adventurous pursuit through the city, showcasing themes of friendship, teamwork, and resourcefulness as they work to catch the thief.