Revenge of the Loser

April 1, 2012
What's a former "loser" to do when the absolute perfect dude moves to town (from California, of course) and draws the attention of everyone? In the series opener, Danny Shine, comics lover and best artist at Gerald Ford Middle School, and his best friend, brainiac Jasper, managed to get their names off the Loser List (a secret list in the girl's second-floor bathroom, managed by school bully and diva Chantal). They're not the most popular guys in school, but they have a seat at lunch and some respect for their individual talents. Then along comes Ty, with his cool looks and his admirable fundraising for good causes and his positive attitudes and helpful nature... Danny and Jasper decide he must be stopped! When they discover that Ty is abysmal at rapping, they devise a talent show to embarrass him in front of the whole school, but do they have the heart to go through with the plan? Kowitt's second Wimpy Kid-esque tale of middle-school fringers pretty much repeats the first. Line drawings with plenty of goofiness and grossness will add to the appeal. An easy read with a good heart; fans of the first will respond well again. (Fiction. 9-12)

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June 1, 2012

Gr 4-7-Seventh-grader Danny Shine is just starting to find his place in middle school when a new kid shows up who throws his whole world askew. Ty seems to be perfect at everything-caring for wounded animals, winning the art contest, being friends with girls, and putting on a fundraiser for global warming. Danny is increasingly frustrated by everything Ty touches and soon decides that the boy is ruining his life and seeks revenge. When he discovers his nemesis's weakness, he comes up with a half-cocked plan to put on a talent show in order to humiliate him in front of everyone. However, when the show starts to go awry, it is Ty who comes to his rescue and Danny is faced with a difficult dilemma. Written in the same style as the "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" books (Abrams), this title will definitely appeal to reluctant readers. However, unlike Greg Heffley, Danny is much more self-aware and truly learns from his mistakes. While the depiction of middle school is a bit oversimplified at times, the book's positive message will strike a chord with many readers.-Kerry Roeder, The Brearley School, New York City

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