Horrible Harry and the Holidaze

[Editor's Note: This is a combined review of HORRIBLE HARRY AND THE HOLIDAZE and HORRIBLE HARRY AND THE ANT INVASION.]--Horrible Harry is the center of attention once again, but whether he's being overly interested in the class's ant farm or needing Ms. Mackle's extra guidance because of a personal problem, he's really not that horrible. Johnny Heller's narration provides the sort of exuberant energy that is required for this pleasing series. Though Heller's voice is clearly that of an adult, within a few sentences his boyish enthusiasm brushes that minor detail aside. Heller appears to relish the boisterous, youthful perspectives of Ms. Mackle's students and is unafraid to perform Harry in his most maverick moments. The likable Heller and the irrepressible Harry are a great combination. J.C.G. (c) AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine

May 1, 2015
Gr 2-4-The safety patrol squad at South School is in need of three more cadets-"students who are responsible, do their work, and are kind to others." Third grader Horrible Harry, whose future dreams include becoming a detective for the Los Angeles Police Department, decides to apply and succeeds in becoming the perfect citizen...for one week. Unfortunately, Harry is not chosen for the squad. South School's excitement continues as the spring book raffle is underway. Readers receive one ticket for every book read. Yet when Doug notices fellow safety cadet Mary tampering with classmates' tickets, he believes something is afoot. He teams up with his good friend Harry to uncover the "possible raffle ticket fraud in Room 3B." Terrific narration is provided by Johnny Heller. VERDICT This work would be a great classroom resource for many character-building discussions points: being a positive role model, honesty, the error of jumping to conclusions, and the multiple faces of bullying. Additionally, series fans will enjoy revisiting the familiar characters.-"Cheryl Preisendorfer, Twinsburg City Schools, OH"

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