Review: The Stinky Truth by Joe Berger

THE STINKY TRUTH

by Joe Berger

Margaret K. McElderry Books

Middle Grade Humor

240 pages

Sam Lyttle learns that sometimes the truth can hurt just as much as a lie in this follow-up to the humorous and cheeky illustrated middle grade novel The Pudding Problem which Kirkus Reviews calls perfect for “fans of Timmy Failure and Big Nate.” 

School’s out, and a long, hot summer of endless fun beckons for Sam and Charlie. Except that no sooner has it begun than they’re wishing it away in anticipation of Cry Wolfe, the first Wolfe Stone movie, which opens at the end of the season. Sam’s mom issues him a challenge: if, and only if, Sam can make it through the entire vacation without telling a single fib, he will be allowed to see his crime-fighting hero on the big screen.

Six whole weeks, without a single lie?! No problem. Until the small matter of a tray of snowball cakes in the fridge with a Sam-sized footprint in them threatens to end Sam’s dreams of cinema heaven. Can he continue to steer clear of lying, while not having to reveal the actual reason he was in the fridge, in the dark, standing on a table to get to the top shelf to hide ‘the thing that shall never be named?’

MY TIDBITS

Loaded with silly illustrations, difficult moments, and hilarious outcomes, this is a book which fans of series like Wimpy Kid are sure to enjoy.

Sam does have a tendency to shoot out lies. Constantly. This has never been a problem for him, but when his mother has had enough, she unfortunately has the greatest tool in the world to make him think twice about his far fetched tales—the showing of the best movie showing ever, Cry Wolfe. He and his best friend have been waiting to see it for months, and now, it's only three weeks away. But if he wants to see it, he'll have to keep those lies at bay. All of them. Not only is this a challenge for him, but the truth has other unexpected results.

Humor reigns as Sam attempts what he assumed was impossible—to always tell the truth. It's not that he loves to lie...which makes him sympathetic...rather, situations push him to panic and out comes a tale which saves him. A tale which is never true, and the ones he recites are funny. It was a predicament easy to relate to because most kids would rather squiggle out of trouble if they could.

While every page packs quirky, goofy and simply funny moments, there is a lovely message built in too. Lying is more a part of daily life than anyone wants to admit, and the truth can be much more powerful and saving than any lie ever could be. This message is loud and clear as Sam squirms through the most wonderful predicaments...and each one is not out of the realm of reality. Every situation is one (more or less) that can take place or even does. The story hits home and guarantees giggles galore. Not only for kids. 


And here he is...

Joe Berger is the author and illustrator of the Bridget Fidget books, has illustrated seven other picture books including the new Chitty Chitty Bang Bang novels by Frank Cottrell Boyce, and has a long-running cartoon series in The Guardian, as well as TV animation projects visit Joe online at JoeBerger.co.uk.

Review: It's Not Easy Being Mimi by Linda Davick

IT'S NOT EASY BEING MIMI

by Linda Davick

Beach Lane Books

Middle Grade Humor

176 pages

Meet Mimi! She’s a cat-loving, convertible-driving, bucket-cake-baking girl who loves living in the Periwinkle Tower with her best pals, Yoshi and Tonya. When the friends learn that someone new is moving into the building just before Thanksgiving, Mimi hopes it will be a girl just like her to share all of her hobbies and adventures. But the new neighbor is not what Mimi envisioned at all. And by Christmas, things have gone from iffy…to bad…to worse! Will life in the Periwinkle Tower ever be as fabulous as it was before?

MY TIDBITS

With tons of spunk and silly moments, Mimi pulls through every situation and somehow gets even the most difficult moments to smooth out...more or less, in her own way.

Mimi lives with her neighbors in a tower, each one with their own floor. She goes to school and drives her own car. When a new boy moves in, Mimi's not sure what to think. He's not the kind of person she'd hoped to have as a neighbor. At school, he's not any better. Somehow, Mimi's going to have to figure out how to handle the entire thing.

While there is a more serious message in these pages, this is not a serious book. Silliness and quirkiness spills from every page in the most delightful and unexpected ways. Mimi's life is anything but logical—she lives by herself with kids who live by themselves in their own apartments on each floor in a very skinny tall tower. They drive cars. They cook. They lead their own lives. But then, they go to school and are just like any other kids, having to deal with their teachers and mistakes. Neither do they behave like adults or those who live on their own. Granted, Mimi bakes cakes and they drive and do all those necessary things, but they are kids. Completely. It's silliness to giggles, and exactly what this age group dreams and loves.

The story fits well to the younger end of the middle grade range, and with 176 pages, might seem a bit thick. But it's not. The print is large, keeping the text on each page at a level which doesn't overwhelm. Every page carries an illustration or at the minimum, phrases in extremely large print to add funny emphasis. It's entertaining and holds humor high every moment. While the plot may lack, the fun takes over making a ridiculous and fun read.


And here she is...

Linda Davick is the illustrator of several picture books, including the New York Times bestseller 10 Trick-or-Treaters written by Janet Schulman; and We Love You, Rosie! by Cynthia Rylant; as well as her own Say Hello! and I Love You, Nose! I Love You, Toes!. She lives in San Francisco in a one-hundred-year-old house by the sea.

Review: Sam Wu is Not Afraid of Ghosts by Katie & Kevin Tsang

SAM WU IS NOT AFRAID OF GHOSTS

by Katie & Kevin Tsang

Illustrated by Nathan Reed

Sterling Children Books

Middle Grade Humor

240 pages

ages 7 to 12

Brilliantly funny new series about the bravest scaredy-cat in the world

Sam Wu is NOT a scaredy-cat (except he is). When a trip to the Space Museum goes terrifyingly wrong, Sam begins a mission to prove to the school bully, and all of his friends, that he is a fearless space adventurer. A truly laugh-out-loud, voice-led and madcap story of ghost hunting, snakes and mischievous pet cats called Butterbutt, perfect for fans of Tom Gates, Wilf the Mighty Worrier and Barry Loser, and readers aged six plus. 

 MY TIDBITS

Ghostly silliness mixes with middle school adventure to make an exciting read which even reluctant readers are sure to enjoy.

Sam Wu knows what he likes and sticks to it—even when it means wearing his self-made Space Blasters outfit to the space museum when nobody else has heard of his favorite show. When a dare ends up in the most terrible way ever, Sam Wu is deemed as a scaredy-cat. Which he's not, and he's determined to prove it no matter what ghosts or man-eating snakes get in his way.

Just a flip through this book promises it's going to be a fun, quirky and never boring read. At 240 pages, it might sound a little longer, but the oodles and bounds of illustrations and artfully impressions in the text keep the word count light. This is a book which lives not only from the story, but the emotions and humor from the scribbles and illustrations. It's a great mix.

Sam Wu sticks out from the rest of his class. He loves a show no one else has heard about and has strange favorite foods. His little sister is pesky but at the same time, a great friend. This sibling portrayal hits spot-on and is fun to follow. But Sam has more friends. His parents have his back in as much as parents can. Plus, he has two good friends who stick with him even when they don't always agree with everything or unsure. In other words, Sam is a very normal kid.

Sam's adventures to prove he isn't a scaredy-cat are funny and take unexpected twists and turns. The ghosts are a sneaky turn, which adds a whole new level of adventure. But none of it ever leaves the realm of reality. Sam does learn his lesson. Somewhat. But mostly he discovers that he's not the only one who is afraid of something. The trick is in dealing with these fears.

This is a great read for kids ages 8 to 12 who enjoy a lot of fun in their reads. Especially reluctant readers will enjoy the wonderful amount of illustrations and see some of themselves in Sam Wu.

And here they are...

Katie and Kevin Tsang met while studying at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Sam Wu is Not Afraid of Ghosts is their first joint novel, and the second book int eh series, Sam Wu Is Not Afraid of Sharks, is coming in March 2019. Some of Sam Wu's experiences are based on Kevins' Childhood. He works as a healthcare technology consultant. Katie writes YA as Katherine Webber. Katie and Kevin live in London and are available of interview.

Visit Katie at www.kwebberwrites.com . Follow her on Twitter at @kwebberwrites and on Instagram at @kwebberwanders. Follow Kevin on Twitter at @kevtsang and on Instagram at @kevgtsang.

Review: Trick or Tweet by Pepper Springfield

TRICK OR TWEET

Bobs and Tweets, Book Three

by Pepper Springfield

Illustrated by Kristy Caldwell

Scholastic Inc.

Middle Grade Humor / Adventure

64 pages

Lou Tweet and Dean Bob can't wait to go trick-or-treating on Bonefish Street on Halloween. This year, they're entering the Best Halloween Block contest, which means they need to visit every house and mark down each delicious treat that they receive.

But with spooky houses, a power outtage, and another big Tweets and Bobs family feud, will Lou and Dean be able to accomplish their task and win the contest? Find out in another spooky installment of Bobs and Tweets, this time with funhouses, new friends, and lots and lots of candy!

This third book in the Bobs and Tweets series is filled with full-color illustrations and high-interest rhymes that's just right for reluctant readers. It's Dr. Seuss meets Captain Underpants wrapped into one zany Halloween adventure! So go ahead, read and laugh and trick-or-treat with the Bobs and Tweets! 

MY TIDBITS

Unexpected adventure awaits on every page as this fun duo head out for a spooky and special Halloween night.

Bob and Tweet finally have permission to head out trick or treating on their own. Not only are they carrying big enough bags for all the treats they hope to collect but are hoping to win a contest which is all about trick or treating in their neighborhood. The map is ready, and they're doing pretty well. Then, a huge problem strikes. The power goes out along the entire street. Bob and Tweet are sure they can handle it, but they are not alone.

This is a cute, quirky story for those kids who are ready to hit their first chapter books. The text rhymes, giving it a sense of fun and silliness. The vocabulary is just right for kids ages seven to nine, and the pacing moves along quick enough to keep readers on their toes. This is one of those books even reluctant readers won't shy away from, not only thanks to the humorous tale but also because of the bright and bold illustrations. Reading is kept fun the entire way through.

Bob and Tweet each have their own way of doing things (as do their families), but they fit together nicely and stand together as true friends should. They both are proud to be themselves and head into the world with this wonderfully, individualistic attitude. This self-assurance is even seen in their costumes. The way they handle those around them is an inspiration and touches on acceptance and reaching out to help others. But these good messages never overpower the giggles and fun.

Review: Principal Mikey by Derek Taylor Kent

PRINCIPAL MIKEY

by Derek Taylor Kent

Illustrated by Paul Louis Smith

Middle Grade Humor

170 pages

ages 8 to 12

A hilarious S.T.E.A.M. chapter book for fans of Wimpy Kid and Dork Diaries, this heartwarming story is perfect for any 7-12 year old. Mikey McKenzie is an expert at using the scientific method to solve problems in his neighborhood and school. The only problem he can't solve is that he's just 10-year-old and nobody takes any of his ideas seriously. But everything changes when the kooky Principal Walker appoints him as the new school principal when she gets called away, much to the chagrin of the stern Vice Principal Sherman. It's a dream come true for Mikey to finally have the power to implement all his great ideas to improve the school. However, when the power goes to his head, the new job strains his relationships with his best friend and his sister he looks up to. On top of that, the district is threatening to close the underperforming school unless they ace the new standardized test. By the end, he'll have to think outside the box to find solutions that will save the school and his most valued relationships. S.T.E.A.M. concepts: problem-solving, scientific method, educational technology, health/medicine, and socio-emotion. 

MY TIDBITS

Adults hold kids back and block the greatest ideas, or at least, that's what Mikey gets the chance to prove along with the guarantee of tons of laughs and smiles.

Mikey is ten years old and has lots of great ideas on how to solve problems. When a flu keeps half of the kids at home, he and his best friend decided to figure out where the source of this epidemic is. And they find it, but this great discovery brings something Mikey never expected. He's now been promoted to principal of the school, and what that entails is more than he might be able to cope with.

What a fun read! Mikey is a clever kid, a nerd who like all kids his age, isn't taken seriously by adults. He strives for logic in his methods and is usually pretty responsible, but he has this delicious dash of normal boy rascal-ness that makes him impossible not to love and cheer on. Not to mention ideas like a slip and slide down the hallway would make almost any kid take his side.

While humor is constantly present, this isn't a slap-stick or sheer funny read. Mikey runs into some more serious problems, especially as his sister faces the challenges of bullying and peer pressure. Even Mikey gets caught up in more difficult issues such as friendship and finding balance. The author weaves all of this nicely into a fast-paced story, letting the two sides (silliness and seriousness) meld masterfully.

The illustrations add a dash of spice and bring Mikey and his tale to life. They are sprinkled among the pages, giving readers a break from the text every now and then. This, along with the easy and short read, make it an ideal book for even reluctant readers. It's a book kids are sure to enjoy, with a character they'll easily identify with. After all, becoming principal as a kid and changing the school fits into many kids' secret dreams.








And here he is...

Derek Taylor Kent is the author of the award-winning middle grade series Scary School as well as a bestselling bilingual book, El Perro con Sombrero, which has become a staple in Spanish-speaking and bilingual homes. Other picture books include Simon and the Solar System and Counting Sea Life with the Little Seahorse, which he co-wrote with his wife, beloved children’s author, Sheri Fink. His first novel for an adult audience, Kubrick's Game, was released in 2016 and became in an international best-seller. Upcoming titles include a new bilingual picture book Doggy Claus/Perro Noel in November 2018 and a top secret new middle-grade series in 2019. Learn more about Derek and his books at www.DerekTaylorKent.com. There, you can sign up for his exclusive Fan Club to receive free coloring pages for kids or a free e-book! You can purchase autographed and personalized copies of his and Sheri’s books at www.WhimsicalWorldBooks.com. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and their Italian Greyhound, Zander. 

Instagram and Twitter: @DerekTaylorKent and @Sheri_Fink

Review: Jesper Jinx's Best Friend by Marko Kitti

JESPER JINX'S BEST FRIEND

Jesper Jinx, Book Six

Middle Grade Humor

ages 8+

150 pages

Jesper Jinx is eleven, and probably the unluckiest person in all of Puffington Hill. Everything he touches seems to end up in sweet disaster. Hence his nickname 'Jinx'.

Every great hero needs a sidekick who’s ready to laugh at their silly antics. And Oliver has been just that for Jesper on countless pranks since the day they were born. But now Jesper’s sister Melinda has set her sights on Oliver and even worse, he doesn’t seem to mind.

Add to this horrible dilemma the fact that there is a heatwave in Puffington Hill. The air is now so hot that birds are falling from the trees and grandpas and grandmas are forced to wear bikinis. It all adds up to sweet disaster for Jesper.

How far is he willing to go to save his friendship with Oliver?

MY TIDBITS

The Silly Old Scribbler devulges another glimpse into the hilarious life of Jesper Jinx, while sliding through topics which hit middle graders face on.

Jesper Jinx's best friend--one he's known since the first seconds of life--has turned traitor. Or so it seems to Jesper. Now, he has to decide if there's a way to deal with his best friend's decision or lose his co-heart in crime forever.

In this sixth book in the Jesper Jinx series, the Silly Old Scribbler (aka Marko Kitti) takes a deep dive into one of the most treasured things middle school boys have--their best friend--and one of a boy's worst enemies--their sisters. Oliver and Jesper have been through thick and thin. So the thought of 'treason' hits right in the gut despite the humor buffer packed around it. Oliver and Jesper's history finally comes to light. Of course, it's not a boring explanation but delivered in perfect Jesper style.

The author delivers the adventures in a very honest and straight forward style. Despite being a prankster, Jesper is a kid with real feelings. This mixture of side splitting humor and every day middle grade problems, makes these books a pure treat to read. But it's not only this mix which lures in. The books are short, only 150 or so pages, which guarantees not to chase away the more reluctant readers. All sorts of goodies are packed within the story--agreements to sign, illustrations, diagrams. Readers not only read the tales but participate as if the narrator was really sitting right in front of them.

Summed up, this is a great continuation of a wonderful series. And I can't wait to see what happens to Jesper Jinx next.

And here he is. . .

Marko Kitti is a Finnish writer.

Find more about Marko's children's book series, Jesper Jinx, at www.jesperjinx.co.uk

Marko's Finnish publications include two collections of short stories, two novels for adult readers and one novel for young adult readers. His Finnish novel Meidän maailma (Our World) was shortlisted for the Runeberg Prize in 2009.

Review: The Penny Predicament by Veola Vazquez

THE PENNY PREDICAMENT

The Coin Chronicles, Book Two

by Veola Vazquez

Double Letter Press

Middle Grade

252 pages

What would a 12-year-old boy do to help save his family from financial ruin? In Jake King’s case, he’d do just about anything. But uncertainty sets in as his plans go awry, his friendships start to fail and his faith takes a few hits. Finding a rare coin worth a fortune might be the answer. But what if it’s not real? Will Jake lose his best friend and his family’s future at the same time? Only God knows and, hopefully, he’ll let Jake in on it.

Amazon / Createspace / Goodreads

MY TIDBITS

This is the second book in the Coin Chronicles series. Although I didn't read the first one, I had no trouble diving into The Penny Predicament and didn't miss anything at all. In other words, this can be read as a stand alone with out any problem.

Jake King is a normal 12-year-old with normal 12-year-old problems until he eavesdrops on his parents and discovers his father has been laid off. Several weeks go by, and his father still has no luck in finding a job. Jake's mom is counting pennies at the supermarket and worries are running high. So Jake decides to take matters into his own hands.

This is a Christian novel but not the pushy kind. Rather, faith is subtly woven in so that it feels as natural as it does in any family. This is also a novel with lots of diversity, covering different races and cultures all with the ease that every day life often has. Kids nine and up will have no problem sinking into Jake's character as he battles troubles they'll recognize--acceptance, bullying, peer pressure. And Jake has a way of getting from one sticky situation into the next, which brings laughs and giggles at the right times.

There are cute illustrations dabbled through out the book, adding a little bit of fun. The pacing is a little slow at times but also gives a solid glance into Jake's life--all situation kids will recognize and sympathize with.

Summed up, this is a nice, solid read about a boy who tries to deal with things as best he can. Kids ages nine and up will be able to relate to Jake nicely and see how faith and a little imagination mixed with hard work can move things in unexpected ways.


All about. . .

VEOLA VAZQUEZ!!!

Dr. Veola Vazquez, the mother of two boys, uses humor, personal experience and insight to captivate young readers. As a Christian psychologist, she approaches the difficult issues of young life in a way that encourages and instructs the children who read her books. Her witty and fun stories build on real life issues to teach lessons about faith, friendship and family. 

In addition to her works for children, Dr. Vazquez maintains a website and blog where she provides tools for parenting and devotionals to encourage Godly living. With a specialty in childhood issues such as AD/HD and childhood

depression, anxiety and trauma, she has special insight into the ways parents can be most helpful to their children. Also, as a mother herself and a wife of over 20 years, she uses her personal wisdom in conjunction with her professional experience to guide and inspire families.

With a passion for helping both children and families, Dr. Vazquez is also a Bible teacher and inspirational speaker for women's events and mom's groups. In addition to her inspirational teaching, she is also a professor at a Christian university in Southern California where she teaches both graduate and undergraduate psychology courses. 

Finally, Dr. Vazquez loves to spend her time reading and taking walks with her family and wiener dog, Paco.

Jesper JInx and the Turkish Pepper by Marko Kitti

JESPER JINX 

and the 

TURKISH PEPPER

Jesper Jinx Book 3

by Marko Kitti

Humor 

Ages 8+

Jesper Jinx is eleven, and probably the unluckiest person in all of Puffington Hill. Everything he touches seems to end up in sweet disaster. Hence his nickname ‘Jinx’.

In the third book of his wickedly funny adventures, Jesper goes camping and develops a taste for Turkish Pepper. (WARNING: Turkish Pepper might not be what you think it is!) You’ll also get to know Jesper’s 99-year-old neighbour. Oh, and a fox called Frank. Finally, there’s a huge concert coming to town starring local rapper Horrid Porridge.

Can Jesper rise to the occasion with another Boredom Breaker or will the Turkish Peppers get to him?

MY TIDBITS

Jesper is back again, and boredom still is a word he's never going to understand. Like the other two books in this series, Jesper Jinx and the Turkish Pepper is packed full of humor. Especially boys ages 8 and up will love following Jesper as he again gets himself into quite the pickle...or, in this case, pepper.  I really enjoy the lighter side of life these books take, while still presenting a (fairly) normal boy and how he faces (fairly) normal, everyday problems in his own, original ways. Kids will have no trouble relating to Jesper and sympathizing with him as he tries to work his way through the craziest situations...although I doubt they'll try his techniques themselves. 

I can only recommend this series and believe that especially reluctant readers will enjoy accompanying Jesper on his hilarious adventures.

And here he is. . .

Marko Kitti!!!

Marko Kitti is an internationally published children's book author and illustrator. He is best known for his humorous children's book series, Jesper Jinx.

Jesper Jinx, who first appeared in 2014, is beloved by children all over the world, since books with his wonderfully wicked adventures are already published in several languages.

Marko has written novels and short stories too, and his Finnish novel Meidän maailma (Our World) was shortlisted for the Runeberg Prize in 2009. Born and raised in Finland, he now lives in Eastbourne, England, with his wife and stepdaughter and their two mischievous cats.

You can follow Marko on. . .

 Twitter, http://www.twitter.com/MarkoKitti 

Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/JesperJinx 

or visit The Official Jesper Jinx Website at http://www.jesperjinx.co.uk