The Dodgeball Chronicles

Starred review from July 1, 2008
Gr 4-8-Arthurian legend gets an update for young readers in this outstanding graphic novel. During his first day at Camelot Middle School, Artie King opens a locker that no one has ever been able to open; gets a pop quiz from his science teacher, Mr. Merlyn; and offends both Principal Dagger and bully Joe Roman. Joe is the leader of the Horde, a gang that happens to be the local dodgeball (a game played here with the fervor of Texas football) champions. With his future at Camelot riding on a challenge match, Arthur calls on new friends Wayne and Percy, and gets a little assistance from that mysterious locker. References to other versions of Arthurian legend are sprinkled throughout (such as mentions of Camelot alumni Terry White and Tommy Mallory), but the funny, fast-paced tale of young Arthurs quest to defeat the bullies stands well on its own. The appealing illustrations are full of color, action, and life. Point new fans to one of the many retellings of the deeds of the Round Table while they wait for the second volume in the series.Beth Gallego, Los Angeles Public Library, North Hollywood

Copyright 2008 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 15, 2008
Artie Kings first day at his new middle school is terrible: his nasty older sister ensures he misses the bus; a couple of geeky kids are friendly, but the school bullies smell a new victim; and the principal is a horror who hands out detentions and dire warnings as she peers out from behind her horn-rimmed glasses. Artie has muddied the waters a bit himself by boasting that hes a dodgeball prowhen hes really not. Kids familiar with King Arthur legends will like the idea of a mysteriouslocker, seemingly rusted shut, that opens for Artie and the helpful stranger named Merlyn (who turns out to be Arties science teacher and guidance counselor). But kids unfamiliar with Arthur will still like this tongue-in-cheek take on the school rules and games that can dominate a kids life. Although the characters seem purposefully multiethnic, Cammusos text is witty and his cartoons energetic; hispictures speak as clearly as his words. A good start for the Knights of the Lunch Tale series.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2008, American Library Association.)