Stink and the Ultimate Thumb-Wrestling Smackdown

December 1, 2010

Gr 3-6-These hefty, oversize editions of childhood classics include congenial paintings executed by Foreman in previous decades. The artwork is pleasant, but not really dominant here. Though inflated in size, the books employ a traditional layout of illustrated novels with thoughtful, sparing placement of pictures and uninterrupted flow of the original texts. Gentle, often humorous interpretations of characters and events appear in one full-page scene in most chapters; occasional small views and set pieces open and conclude chapters. With paintings that beautifully complement the enduring stories, these might be welcome new editions. Not visually lavish by today's standards, but still showy, they will serve as gift items or for reading aloud in some situations. Libraries with a particular interest in Foreman's work will definitely want them.-Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Copyright 2010 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2011
Grades 2-4 In the latest chapter book about the irrepressible young grade-schooler, Stink is proud of his report card with all the Os for Outstanding, but there is one U for Unsatisfactory; he flunked Phys. Ed. So he looks for a sport he likes and tries thumb wrestling, but it is the karate class thats the best fit. As always, the wordplay is part of the fun in this series (Fizz-Ed) and so are the comic-style graphics. Readers will enjoy the karate details, both the action and the calming meditation, as well as the storys climax, when Stink beats the bully.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2011, American Library Association.)