The Greatest Power

April 1, 2009
Gr 3-5-In their second adventure, a spinoff of Van Draanen's popular "Shredderman" series (Knopf), Dave Sanchez ("The Gecko") and Sticky (a gecko) once again face down evil villain Damien Black. Black, recently escaped from prison, robs a bank to finance his latest round of dastardly deeds. Unfortunately for him, Dave and Sticky witness the theft and vow to track him down. With the help of the Aztec powerband that gives Dave the ability to turn invisible, as well as the wall-walking superpower that earned him his nickname, the two pals infiltrate Black's lair, encountering an overcaffeinated monkey, three bumbling baddies, and numerous bizarre gadgets created by Black. After escaping with the cash, Dave and Sticky must get past a nosy neighbor, protective parents, and an attempt by Black to recapture the loot before Dave can return it to its rightful owners. While the action and humor will likely appeal to young readers, the writing is not up to Van Draanen's usual standard. Sticky's linguistic quirks spill over into the narrator's voice, becoming less charming and more distracting by the page. Purchase this early chapter book where enthusiasm for "Shredderman" runs high. Otherwise, stick with Jon Scieszka's "Time Warp Trio" (HarperCollins) to entice reluctant readers."Misti Tidman, Boyd County Public Library, Ashland, KY"

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

May 1, 2009
Grades 3-5 In the second The Gecko and Sticky book, Dave and his loyal (though mouthy) gecko, Sticky, witness a bank robbery perpetrated by their diabolical, demented nemesis, Damien Black. Wearing the magical wristband that gives him a choice of invisibility or gecko-like wall-walking powers, Dave pursues Black into his convoluted mansion in an attempt to set things right. Though Daves sidekick, Sticky, supplies much of the broad humor, the narration itself sets a droll tone that is amplified by the stylized, black-and-white illustrations. The story concludes with a teaser for the duos next adventure.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2009, American Library Association.)