Tell a Lie and Your Butt Will Grow

April 1, 2003
Gr 2-4-Zack's science-fair partner is the school's worst liar. No matter what yarn anyone tells, Andrew has to top it-in spades. Suddenly, in the midst of one of his whoppers, Zack notices that his friend's pants seem to be getting tighter- and tighter- and r-r-rip! Like Pinocchio, Andrew is showing physical reactions to fibbing. However, instead of his nose, it's his hind end that is growing. Before long, the boys' project-a bicycle-powered electrical generator-is in jeopardy. Andrew's seat can't fit on it! Zack must get his friend back to normal-and convince him to stick to the facts in the future. Amusing cartoon drawings illustrate Andrew's posterior problem without slipping over into gross details. Adults may find the preoccupation with backsides just a tad distasteful, but fans of the series expect a degree of lighthearted irreverence. The off-the-wall humor and underlying emphasis on honesty will appeal to transitional and reluctant readers.-Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL

Copyright 2003 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.