Book Description:
Sixth-grader Greg Kenton has always had a talent for making money. His latest scheme, creating
and selling miniature comic books, looks to be a success. However, problems arise when his
classmate and longtime nemesis, Maura, competes with him by making her own mini-stories.
Even worse, the principal, who believes that comic books are nasty and violent, bans their
sale at school.
Clements has created another clever, enterprising young protagonist in
Greg, who, like Nick in Frindle, also finds inconsistencies in his school's
regulations and works toward change. While his intentions at the beginning are
purely entrepreneurial, his outlook on money transforms to the philanthropic as he
fights for the right to sell his Chunky Comics to his fellow students. Also, his
relationship with Maura takes a new turn as the two enemies pool their talents and
find a way to get along.
The characters are rich with interesting quirks and motivations, including
Mr. Z, a blood-phobic math teacher. Along with providing a fast-paced and
humorous story line, the author examines concepts of true wealth, teamwork,
community mindedness, and the value of creative expression. Selznick's pencil sketches add comic touches throughout.
|
