I love the opening lines of this book: Of course I didn't like Digby when I first met him. No one does. This book made me laugh out loud multiple times--which is an impressive feat all in itself for a middle school teacher contending with spring fever and apathy. The playful wit and banter of both main characters, Zoe and Digby, is thoroughly enjoyable and carries the reader along into the heart of the story. Digby involves Zoe in his investigation of a local missing teen, Marina Miller. Before Zoe knows it, she's on "Planet Digby" and there's no return. I adored this book and feel that it has something for all readers--sharp wit, adventure, mystery, and humor. I would recommend this book to my 7th and 8th graders; it's great for kids who already understand and enjoy sarcasm and quirky characters. Originally, I thought the story left readers with at least one major loose end, but then I found out there is another book in the works. Can. Not. Wait.
While not my favorite Sonnenblick book (which would be Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie), this was still a solid read. After Alex Gregory drove a car without a license (while drunk) and decapitated a lawn gnome, he is required to work community service with senior citizen and resident grouch Solomon Lewis. In the beginning of the book, Alex is self-centered and immature. In fact, I thought his character was annoying. Yet, as the book continued, I started to like Alex more and more. I loved Solomon, a character who was inspired by the author's grandfather. The story takes hilarious (and somewhat predictable) turns as crusty old Solomon and Alex get to know each other.
I recommend this to readers who can relate to family issues, divorce, and making mistakes, as well as readers who like music--playing electric guitar in particular. It would strongly appeal to middle school boys with an interest in music. I give this book 3.5 out of 5 stars!
This book is the perfect read for girls who love movies--and romantic comedies in particular. Unlikely friends Marijke Monti and Lily Spencer team up with a crazy scheme: to reinact epic movie moments to win over their crushes. I loved all of the movie references in this book, but I'm not sure if middle school girls still watch some of the movies mentioned, such as Sixteen Candles, Say Anything, and Titanic. The book lightly addresses family issues and searching for personal identity. Normally, I would find the ending of this book unrealistic and too perfect, but like most romantic comedies, I know what I'm getting into and a happy ending is completely satisfying. I recommend this to high school and some middle school readers who like romantic movies. I give this book 3.5 out of 5 stars!
