  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 03/01/2017 Gr 3–6—In this second book in the series, the Talaskas are competing for a new prize: their own beloved home. Eleven-year-old Cal and his quirky family won their last contest, the Great Grab, despite overwhelming odds. While the family members possess unique idiosyncrasies, their love for one another brings them together to accomplish the near impossible. When the family abode begins to fall apart, literally, Cal convinces the Talaskas to enter a new contest, Escape from Funland, where the first prize is a home makeover. He thinks that the contest is in the bag until the whole town gets wind of the prize; now it's a race to see who can garner the most "Likes" and ultimately get to compete for a new house. Filled with rollicking, fast-paced action; dramatic twists; and a lot of clowns, this story will keep readers entertained right from the start. Despite some predictable plotlines and a rushed conclusion, the narrative will amuse fans of the first book and readers new to the series. VERDICT A laugh-out-loud adventure, ideal for large middle grade collections.—Carol Connor, Cincinnati Public Schools, OH - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Booklist - 04/01/2017 The Talaskas’ home is falling apart. Only drastic measures can prevent it from being sold, so Cal enters the family in the Funland Fun House Makeover Contest. First, they must collect 1,001 “likes” from their town. They scrape by and advance to round two: searching the clown-themed Funland park for a hidden object. Despite good teamwork, the contest does not work out as hoped. The plot proceeds quickly with wordplay and anagrams adding elements of fun. As the multiethnic Talaskas save their home, they learn about true friendship versus online “likes.” A fun, silly romp and a strong sequel to The Prizewinners of Piedmont Place (2016). - Copyright 2017 Booklist. Loading...
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