  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 10/01/2016 In this wild, relatable fantasy, young Paxton C. Heymeyer rebels against the “What’s the magic word?” question; instead of the expected response, he utters “Alakazoomba” and quickly discovers that this actually magic word makes anything he wants appear. Paxton’s requests start innocently but quickly grow more outlandish, until eventually his house resembles a fantasy amusement park, complete with walruses who chase those trying to rein him in off to North Dakota—bye-bye babysitter, parents, and best friend. But soon Paxton discovers that partaking in all these pleasures by himself can get lonely. He wishes everyone back, apologizes, and is forgiven by everyone except the babysitter who, in a typical Barnett twist, is again chased off by the walruses. Brightly colored digital illustrations perfectly complement the text and convey Paxton’s over-the-top antics, while showing both his fiendish and vulnerable sides. Although the moral “be careful what you wish for” is a well-used theme, this telling will resonate with (and tickle) the intended audience. - Copyright 2016 Booklist. Loading...
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