The Bull Shark: Dragged From Under #1 by Joseph Monninger

My name is Barn, and I'm kind of an expert when it comes to sharks. It's the reason I missed the Red Sox's first spring training game. Someone was killed in a shark attack near my home, so I went over there to check things out. It's not unusual for sharks to swim up the canals from the bay, and people don't realize how dangerous it is to swim there. Some lady thought I was crazy when I saved her dog from getting eaten! Many people want to kill the sharks, but they're only looking for food like every other animal on earth. I need to figure out why so many sharks are in the area and figure out a way to save them while keeping humans safe.

What worked:

The book jumps right into the conflict, as the prologue describes the death of a teenager vacationing with his aunt along a canal. Barn is obsessed with sharks, so he quickly jumps at the chance to investigate the attack. He discovers many of the residents along the canal are either unaware or unconcerned about the danger, but Barn’s focus is on determining why bull sharks are this far inland. The naivety of the people and additional attacks and near-attacks maintain the suspense of the plot. Barn’s mother constantly warns him to stay out of the water which creates a premonition of upcoming dangers.

Prior to each bull shark attack, the author includes a few pages from the shark’s point of view. The purpose is to build anticipation and to provide information about sharks. The author describes how and why sharks attack and eat their prey, and it even touches on how they digest their food. The story shares the shark’s thought process as it prepares to attack. The book then returns to the story just as the creature moves in for the kill. Barn adds additional facts on sharks throughout the story, and he’s perceived as an expert, not a know-it-all.

The book’s purpose is to entertain and to present a case for protecting the environment. Despite the teenager’s death and the threat of further injuries, Barn is all about balancing the need to make the waters safe while preserving the sharks’ lives. The first reaction of humans is to kill dangerous animals, but the book points out sharks are only trying to survive. The question is what have humans done to the environment that has changed the behavior of the animals? The conflict between killing and conservation is at the forefront of the plot.

What didn’t work as well:

The entire book is focused on determining why many bull sharks are lurking in a Florida canal without any other complications to the story. This fact is good because the main conflict is very compelling, but it doesn’t make the overall book as interesting as it might have been. Barn has a very intelligent friend named Finn, and their relationship merits more attention. In addition, Barn has a crush on a girl named Margaret, and their interactions reveal a mutual friendship. These two relationships should be developed more in the book’s sequel.

The Final Verdict:

A suspenseful showdown between humans and deadly bull sharks. The book presents a straightforward story of bull sharks threatening a small, Florida community, and a young boy’s efforts to find a peaceful solution. This book will appeal to lovers of sharks and nature, and the efforts taken to protect them from humans.

How to Train Your Dad by Gary Paulsen

My name is Carl, and my best friend Pooder thinks I have the best dad around. I know my dad loves me and he can repair anything, but he doesn't believe in money. It's hard to make a good impression on Jenny, the most awesome girl in school, when my second-hand clothes don't fit, my bike looks like a reclining lawn chair, and I don't have money to buy anything. It's time to reboot my dad. 

What worked:

The best part of the book is Carl’s dad, as he creates an unusual problem for his son. They live in a trailer located in an industrial part of town, and their yard consists of dirt. His dad doesn’t believe in money, and he’s focused on filling needs, not wants. However, dumpster diving and getting clothes from second-hand shops or garage sales isn’t an impression a twelve-year-old boy wants to share with others. Faded pink overalls, underwear that’s too small, and shoes that are too big affect Carl’s self-image. SP, the label Carl uses for his dad, has a special talent for repairing things, although he tends to make unexpected modifications. The consequences create surprise twists to the plot and embarrassing experiences for Carl.

The plot focuses on Carl’s efforts to change his father’s unusual decisions, but his plans are based on a pamphlet instructing owners on how to change their pets’ behaviors. Obviously, pets and humans are quite different. The story is told from Carl’s point of view, as he explains to readers the experiment to make his life less awkward. Middle-grade readers can identify with Carl’s desires to be accepted by his peers and to not stand out in negative ways. Carl tries ignoring negative behaviors, using positive reinforcement for good behaviors, and distracting his father from unwanted situations. The results are mixed but always amusing. Carl’s best friend Pooder adds creative ideas to the situations which results in additional humor.

The family has a pit bull named Carol that becomes an influential character. Carol is a rescue dog with a horrible history, but she becomes a loyal and protective member of the family. Skunks found on the property are quickly torn to shreds, and her growls and teeth tell everyone she means business. Carl discovers she is more intelligent than he expected, since Carol seems to figure out Carl is experimenting on his father. Carol enjoys SP’s lifestyle, so she doesn’t appreciate Carl’s attempts to make changes. She becomes an obstacle, as Carl tries to train his dad.

What didn’t work as well:

A primary motivation for Carl is a wish to impress the most awesome, cute girl at school. However, she doesn’t show up in the story until the end, and the plot doesn’t include any events at school. Interacting with the girl and other students would help to emphasize the conflict and increase the tension. The author has an unexpected reason for not including the girl that makes sense in the story, but other students could have been used.

The Final Verdict:

A hilarious journey to survive middle school. Carl’s lifestyle is unusual, and his strategy to change his father’s behavior is equally strange. The story is sure to entertain and is highly recommended for your amusement. 

Atlantis Saga #2: Atlantis In Peril by T.A. Barron

My name is Promi, and I don't know what to do about Atlanta. I love her, but we can never be together since I'm an Immortal. My father has warned me that my visits to see her are weakening the veil between our worlds, and its collapse will allow evil spirits to invade earth. I don't trust him since he stole all of my childhood memories, and I just want to do whatever I want. However, I now know I've been stupid and selfish. Atlanta will never want to speak to me again, and my father has shown me the fragility of the veil. As unlikely as it once seemed, it's clear Narkazan has returned, and he's kidnapped my sister Jaladay. To complicate matters, the men I rescued from a doomed ship off the coast of Atlantis are now putting the whole island at risk of destruction. I don't have a plan, as usual, but I've got to atone for my mistakes and make things right.

You should read Atlantis Rising before reading this sequel. Promi was the most interesting character, as he learned to adapt to his new immortality. However, his anger and stubbornness overrode any semblance of common sense. The plot dealt with his transformation into a more responsible character, as the problems grew into a formidable obstacle. The theme of the book boiled down to nature vs. industrialization, as the antagonists saw the Great Forest as resources waiting to be torn down and developed. The forest creatures had nature magic, but it seemed unlikely it could overcome modern machinery. A couple of things didn't work for me. I don't usually like books with multiple settings, and much of this book followed four different storylines. I'd rather see the author do a thorough development of one or two plots rather than divide the attention between four of them. My biggest issue was with the book's resolution, as the conflicts weren't resolved. The problems were getting out of control, and the book left them to be handled in the next one. Take care of the problems in this book, or the story feels unfinished. Overall, I like the series, but this book left me wanting more. 

The Gauntlet #1 by Karuna Riazi

My name is Farah, and I just wanted to get away from the people at my twelfth birthday party. Alex and Essie suggested I open my aunt's gift up in my bedroom, and it seemed like a good idea at the time. It was a game called "The Gauntlet of Blood and Sand", but I got a scary feeling as soon as I unwrapped the package. The game pieces looked like little avatars of us, and I didn't want to even start. Then, my little brother Ahmad grabbed an avatar and disappeared into the game. I didn't know what to do, but my aunt said we needed to follow him if we had any chance of getting him back. Now, we need to complete four challenges before time runs out, or we'll be stuck inside the game forever. The Architect has never lost a game, and he cheats. I won't stop until I've saved my brother. 

I found this book randomly at my local library. The characters and setting were based on the Bangladesh culture, and the author included many details regarding the food, clothing, and customs. The game transported the kids to a Middle Eastern village where all of the inhabitants were former players who had failed to win. This fact reinforced the consequences of not completing the four challenges. The time factor added an element of suspense, although the author didn't really describe it effectively. I never really felt much stress, as I read about the challenges. Ahmad being lost and on his own within the game added another problem for Farah to solve in addition to completing the timed challenges. However, once again the author shared the tension created for Farah but didn't effectively describe it enough to elicit feelings in readers. The challenges involved puzzles and riddles, and the kids needed to work as a team to conquer them. They took turns losing courage and faith, but Farah's determination to rescue her brother kept them going. Overall, this was an entertaining book about a culture that doesn't get much attention. Give it a shot if you're looking for an adventure from the Middle East.

The Boy Who Made Everyone Laugh by Helen Rutter

My friend Billy has a stutter, but he needs to get out of his own head. He's really funny and smart, but his fear of speaking keeps him from showing it. I sometimes step in to stop him from being bullied, but he's got to start doing it himself. He's started sneaking into the school auditorium during lunch, but it's taking all of his nerves just to take the steps up onto the stage. How does he ever expect to perform in front of actual people? I'm very happy that he trusts me, and I'll do everything I can to support him. I hope he lets the world see the real Billy. 

I received an ARC.

What works:

From page one, the story focuses on a young boy’s struggles with stuttering. This disorder is very traumatic for Billy, as he hopes for a miracle cure before his first day of middle school. He comes up with creative ideas to avoid talking and makes lists of ways to get rid of stuttering. He works with a speech therapist once a month, but he’s frustrated nothing has helped. She wants him to speak as much as possible, especially in uncomfortable situations, but that doesn’t make sense for a boy terrified to reveal his stutter in school. The author effectively describes the myriad of emotions experienced by Billy, including his excitement when sharing jokes. He aspires to become a comedian even though it seems impossible for someone with a stutter. Therein lies a huge conflict!

Supporting characters contribute to the plot in different ways. A class bully amplifies Billy’s problems and stress. He quickly identifies Billy as a victim, and the stuttering draws him like a moth to light. However, their relationship transforms in unexpected ways. Several new friends greet Billy on the first day of school and can form a support group if Billy will only speak to them. Ironically, one of the boys has a hearing disorder and can’t hear Billy’s stutter. Skyla is a friend from Billy’s previous school, and she has always helped him in the past. She’s willing to step in when Billy needs help, although he’s not sure why. Her own issues are slowly revealed as the story moves along. Close friendships are something new for Billy, and the skills needed don’t come easy for him. He’s going to need all the friends he can get in dealing with disappointment, anxiety, and the death of a loved one.

The story is written in the first person, which is perfect to express a character’s thoughts and emotions, especially when that character doesn’t want to speak. Fear of what others will think, love for his grandmother, and passion for humor consume Billy’s mind. The positives of love and passion are overshadowed by fear. Billy’s is blinded by perceived negatives about himself, so he fails to consider what others might truly think about him. His teacher is invaluable in nurturing the positives and helping Billy become happier and more confident.

What I might have changed:

The title implies the book will be funny, and every chapter begins with a short joke. However, the seriousness of his stutter takes over the plot, and Billy is forced to face many different complications in his life. The conflicts are really quite severe, especially for a boy starting sixth grade in a new school. His stammer, the bully, his friends, his grandmother, a talent show, and comedy each take over the story at different times. The author is able to manipulate the events toward a most satisfying and happy resolution. Readers with feelings of self-doubt will be able to make connections with Billy’s character.

Skyla is critical to Billy’s mental wellbeing, but her character isn’t developed much beyond the basics. She’s forced to care for her mother at times, but the rest of her family life is a mystery. It always seems like there’s a lot going on in her mind even while she’s talking to Billy or pushing him to take risks. She creates a gift later in the book that exemplifies her empathy.

The Final Verdict:

A heartwarming journey where reality clashes with dreams. Billy’s underdog story will impact readers emotionally with humor being a common thread throughout. I highly recommend you give this book a shot!

The Boy Who Failed Show and Tell by Jordan Sonnenblick

What worked:

The heartfelt story of a young boy’s struggles through another school year. The events of Jordan’s fourth-grade year are most likely based on the author’s real experiences, and they’re typical of life in a common elementary school. Except for the teacher. The book opens with the nervous uncertainty of meeting a new teacher, and then Jordan’s worst nightmares come true. The author effectively describes the emotional turmoil, as Jordan tries to learn from a teacher who dislikes his uniqueness. His issues are compounded by severe anxiety for his mother’s safety. The story balances the seriousness of Jordan’s problems with the humor arising from being an intelligent, curious fourth-grader. The author’s casual, storytelling style suits the book perfectly, as it feels like you’re experiencing the emotional rollercoaster right along with Jordan.

Jordan’s unique issues make learning difficult. His main problems result from asthma medications that make it hard to stay focused and sit still, but he also has trouble dealing with stress. He’s intelligent, but he doesn’t show it in ways his teacher appreciates. She doesn’t have much patience for “JORR-dan”, and she doesn’t like student behavior that isn’t perfect. Jordan’s character becomes more endearing, as he cares for his pet garter snake named Hector. This story is cuter when Jordan discovers Hector is going to need a different name!

It’s a relief when Jordan’s situation changes later in the book, although the circumstances are disturbing. It’s satisfying to see something good finally happen to a misunderstood, young boy. The author reminds us there are still bumpy roads for him, but hope is allowed to enter the story.

What could have been improved:

The author slowly develops Jordan’s issues by sharing his experiences starting a new school year. Consequently, the conflict isn’t clear right away, so the early chapters feel like isolated experiences. They’re still entertaining and set the foundation for Jordan’s problems.

It would be nice for Jordan to have a close friend to confide in, although that would have changed much of the story. Jordan deals with most of the problems on his own, and his frustrations when things don’t work out create the whole plot. His older sister Lissa provides support when she’s aware of a problem, but that’s not very helpful when he’s in school.

The Final Verdict:

This book tells a powerful story of a young boy’s challenges to become a successful student. Humor and drama are expertly woven together to create a story that stimulates a wide range of emotions. It’s a surefire winner that will make connections with all readers.

Atlantis Saga #1: Atlantis Rising by T.A. Barron

My name is Promi, and all I used to worry about was trying to find my next meal. I guess it was a bad idea to embarrass Deputy High Priest Grukarr in public, but I thought he needed to experience a little fear in his life. I should have foreseen that he'd take it personally, as he now has the Royal Guard hunting me down. This makes it more dangerous to steal from the bakeries, but hey, I love sweets! I'm fine living on the streets by myself, and I don't worry about anyone else. I can't explain why I saved the little girl from being run over or why I gave the old lady my lemon pie. However, helping other people has only complicated my life, and I don't like it. After being thrown in prison, a dying woman made me a Listener, and now I'm supposed to save the Great Forest. I'm no hero. I just want to escape this dungeon and get back on the streets.

Promi's character is the highlight of the whole story. He says he doesn't care about others, but his actions differ from his words. There's clearly more to his character than being a kid on the streets. He has a bird-shaped mark over his heart, he wears magic shoes, and his only memories of childhood come from a song that evokes peaceful feelings. His identity is predictable if you think about the clues. The conflict of the plot centers on saving the Great Forest, the heart of natural magic in Ellegandia, and it involves a war being waged between immortals. Using Promi's newly-acquired Listener magic comes with a catch; it requires him to make sacrifices. The greater the magic, the greater the sacrifice. This twist makes spell-casting very interesting. A furry, blue creature named Kermi has sworn to stay with Promi, and he contributes humor to the plot. He's constantly making fun of Promi, calling him names and questioning his intelligence. The friendly banter creates a bond between the two characters. Overall, I enjoyed reading about Promi's transformation from a street thief living alone into a brave, likeable hero, and I recommend you give it a shot. A couple of significant changes arose at the end, so I'm anxious to read the sequel, Atlantis In Peril.

Furious Legacy #1: Curse of the Furies by Meadoe Hora

I've been living with my aunt and training to become a Fury like my missing mother, but punishing others for their sins isn't something I want to do. Hermes says Hades has given me my first case, but the boy named Cass doesn't seem to have anything to atone for. Did the assignment come from Hades, or am I being manipulated by another god? I'm now learning that a war among the gods is brewing, and Apollo is searching for a powerful, hidden artifact. I'm not sure how I fit into this mess, and I'm not sure who I can trust. My aunts have been lying to me about my mother, and the information about Cass isn't true either. I've found my father, who I've never met, but he's in the hospital with mental issues. The haze around his head tells me the problems aren't natural. I never wanted to learn Fury skills, but I now see I'll need them to help my father.

What I Liked:

The most intriguing twist to this book is having a Fury as the main character. The Furies are punishers sent by Hades to force others to atone for their crimes. Their methods could include threats, torture, or death, with the penalty dependent on the crime. Erin is being trained to become a Fury and is needed to replace her mother who has been missing since her birth. Erin doesn’t want to hurt others, so a conflict is immediately created.

Erin is given her first case, but readers should be suspicious. Erin is not supposed to tell her aunts about the mission, and it’s not clear the order came from Hades. The case becomes more complicated when she discovers her target is her twin brother, and their father is in the hospital. Coincidence? The questions continue, as the twins try to figure out what’s really going on and what it has to do with their father. A mysterious adventure ensues!

Animal characters are always fun to watch, and this book includes a black, abused dog that Erin finds in the park. She senses Max before she sees him, and Max sends clues to readers when unsavory characters show up. Animals seem to be good barometers when trying to determine the motivations of others. Max becomes a loyal companion but turns into a fierce defender when provoked.

What didn’t work as well:

Many books have been written about Greek mythology and young characters being thrown into the middle of a war between gods, so the plot is nothing new. Some readers may find this a turn-off, but using Furies as the protagonists is a novel and significant difference. Erin’s aunts love punishing others and are formidable allies. The intimidating aura of Furies and the secrecy behind Erin’s parents contribute to the uniqueness of the story. The questions surrounding which god is causing trouble add further surprises to the story.

The Final Verdict:

A page-turning adventure with Fury! The fast-paced action will engross readers, as a young Fury tries to survive her mother’s legacy. The mystery of her parents will be revealed, and a war between the gods may be on the brink of eruption. This book is a must-read for lovers of mythological heroes. It doesn’t have the humor of Rick Riordan's books, but it makes up for the difference in drama.

A Touch of Ruckus by Ash Van Otterloo

My name is Tennie, and I'll do anything it takes to keep the peace, especially to help my mom. I can't let anyone know about my ability to see their memories just by touching an object they owned. It seems like an invasion of privacy, plus some of the memories are very disturbing. I've met a new friend named Fox who has the ability to see ghosts, and I'm starting to see and hear them too. The ghosts in the forest seem very upset, but we don't know why. They leave messages I don't understand, and they're starting to mess with things around my grandmother's house. They seem especially agitated when Mr. Barton's around. I can't tell my grandmother that I can see ghosts, so I'm the one blamed for the messes. The ghosts are becoming more aggressive, so I need to settle this problem once and for all. 

The book is “To those who take the back seat to keep the peace.” Tennie doesn’t want to share her true thoughts and feelings, because it might make things worse for others, especially her mother. Tennie’s forced to wear gloves all day, so she won't accidentally see anyone else's memories. This twist makes life interesting, although I'm surprised how easily other characters accept this quirky behavior. Making life easier for others and not trespassing on their memories become internal conflicts Tennie must face throughout the book. The author is able to create an eeriness that slowly takes over the story. The forest feels off. Fox’s character presents another mystery to unravel. The gender uncertainty makes Fox more endearing, although they're clearly hiding something. There are many clues about underlying issues and problems, so the plot and climax don’t present any surprises. The book is meant to be a ghost story, and it meets that mark with flying colors. I recommend you give it a shot.

 

Total Mayhem #1: Monday Into the Cave of Thieves by Ralph Lazar

My name is Dash, and it's annoying when mayhem strikes before I've had breakfast. The Wrestle-Scallywags attacked me in synchronized movements, but I was able to escape from their move #6694 and made it to school on time. However, the ninjalike warriors and Devil-Cat have stolen several objects from the building. I'm using my hidden tunnels and the warp-vortex to search for their hideout, but I'm sure lucky my KB-15 warns me of danger. It sure comes in handy when surrounded by the enemy. I still don't know who's the brains behind these thefts or why they want them. Why would anyone steal a trophy, a bottle of perfume, and orange juice? I know it can't be for any good reason, so it's up to me to be the hero. 

I received an ARC of this zany adventure- mystery. The main character and narrator is Dash, as he speaks directly to readers about his thoughts, plans, and feelings. He wields all kinds of amazing weapons and tools and finds time to skip most classes in order to do his heroic deeds. Because the story moves so quickly, the book leaves unanswered questions. Is Dash part of an organization, because the book never shares where he gets all of his gadgets. It seems unlikely that he invents them himself. He had faced the Wrestle-Scallywags 345 times before, but it isn’t clear why he was the one doing it. What is going on beyond the school? The book’s early pages notify readers of an Almanac found at the back that explains all of the unusual terms found in the story, and there are a lot of them. The story doesn’t provide context to decode strange terms, so the Almanac is very useful. The book is categorized with middle-grade books, but it’s more appropriate for elementary readers. The print size, story length, plot, and pictures are more comparable to the Captain Underpants series. It successfully creates a humorous adventure mystery that will be enjoyed by lovers of wacky villains and quirky heroes.