Kung Fooey

August 15, 2011

Sixth in a winning series set in Oahu, Hawaii, this latest about 9-year-old Calvin spins a new twist about his struggle with the island bully that will leave readers satisfied with its auspicious, though imperfect, resolution.

From the moment newcomer Benny Obi enters their classroom, Calvin and his friends recognize that he's a bit of an oddball. Wearing a skull necklace and mirror shades, he approaches them on the playground and boasts about some accomplishments that seem rather unlikely, including knowing kung fu and having seen a show in Las Vegas performed by Calvin's absentee dad, a singer. They're dubious about Benny's claims, but they find him fascinating and are dismayed when bully Tito begins targeting him. Salisbury's established characters have achieved a comfortable familiarity, both because the author allows details about their personalities to emerge naturally throughout the series and because the dialogue and dynamics at play are so realistic. Calvin's first-person voice and his internal process as he strives to do the right thing are engaging and believable. Rogers' black-and-white ink-and-wash drawings are full of movement and mood, from broadly smiling insects to the formidable glower of Stella, the teenage friend of the family with whom Calvin has a strained, but caring sort-of-sibling relationship.

This newest continues to spin a fun and thoughtful yarn. (Fiction. 7-10)

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August 1, 2011

Gr 3-5-In this installment, a new classmate, Benny Obi, eats dried bug snacks and claims to know kung fu. While Calvin tries to figure out what to make of him, he's challenged by the school bully, Tito, and has a prickly relationship with live-in babysitter Stella. Supported by his friends and reassuring adults, Calvin finds satisfying solutions to his problems, even if they do not always come in time to save the day. The Hawaiian island setting is a subtle but appealing presence, bringing uniqueness and diversity to the narrative. Salisbury offers gentle wisdom and understanding, helping Calvin-and readers-realize the importance of respect, tolerance, and standing up for oneself and one's friends. Expressive black-and-white illustrations add humor and are generously sprinkled throughout. The straightforward writing style, distinct characters, and now-requisite "Hawaii" and "Calvin" facts are sure to please readers. This is another strong entry in a winning series that can be enjoyed as a stand-alone read.-M. Kozikowski, Sachem Public Library, Holbrook, NY

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.