FICTION

The Giant Smugglers

by Matt Solomon
PAULS, Chris & . 288p. Feiwel & Friends. May 2016. Tr $16.99. ISBN 9781250066527.
COPY ISBN
Gr 4–8—Charlie Lawson befriends a giant and names him Bruce. The local bully, whose dad works for Accelerton and is looking for the giant so that he can develop a formula to enhance growth in humans, has it out for the pair. Then there is Hank, who is trying to move the giant to a safe haven. Finally, there is Charlie's brother, Tim, who works for a traveling carnival and happens to be a giant-smuggler. Charlie is intent on saving Bruce and keeping him safe. The story moves at a quick pace as Charlie is involved in several dangerous altercations and high-speed chases. Though some of the bad guys may be stereotypical, the authors do not talk down to their readers as they paint a vivid picture of Charlie's trials and triumphs.
VERDICT Middle schoolers with a need for action and adventure will scoop up this title.
Reviewed by Elizabeth Kahn, Patrick F. Taylor Science & Technology Academy, Avondale, LA
Loner Charlie Lawson excels at playing the racing video game Total Turbo 4. When he discovers a giant in an abandoned warehouse, the real race is on: he must help giant smugglers protect his friend and stop an evil corporation from abusing giants. The characters are mostly two-dimensional, but this quick-paced adventure with a hint of the supernatural should appeal to middle-grade readers.
 , Aug 01, 2016

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