Velma was reading an Ellison book. And this show is insanely great. The gang learns of several Mystery Solving Teams that have lived in their town over the years. Each one has an Animal Companion, and the Animal Companion always goes crazy and kills everyone else. It's more complex, with planets aligning and a Jade Coffin and the planet Nibiru and more, but they do confirm the deaths in at least one episode.
Yeah, it's not badly written. And Patrick Warburton is Fred's dad. And they don't even shade the fact that Fred and Daphne are banging each other anymore, it's just an open fact.
They have a recurring female character that is in love with Velma and it's pretty clear what her intentions are. She appears first as a villain in an episode and then again later appears as a suspect who provides clues to help with the investigation. After some things that happen she becomes part of the team for part of the second season and the way that she talks to Velma is the same way Fred and Daphne talk to each other while they are being awkwardly flirty. Velma is basically unaware for a very long time about the feelings of the girl.
I cannot say enough good things about this series. The first season is streaming on Netflix in America right now, I really encourage you to take a look at it as soon as possible.
I've only read spoilers, but you will shit your pants when you find out who the mysterious informant Mr. E is.
Also, after you finish watching the Mystery Inc., watch the opening sequences to The New Scooby-Doo Movies, The Scooby-Doo Show and The New Scooby-Doo Mysteries.