  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 01/01/2016 Impulsive prankster Pete, a supporting character in Greenwald’s ongoing middle-school tales of Charlie Joe Jackson, takes a stressful but ultimately triumphant star turn after a chance encounter lands him a major role in an upcoming prep-school film titled Sammy and the Princess. Being basically clueless (“Just a doofus who walked into the right coffee shop”), he has eye-opening experiences to both the process and the politics of making movies. Moreover, thanks to the contractual secrecy, the punishing shooting schedule, and also the fact that he’s cast opposite awesomely hot teen-star Shana Fox, Pete soon finds all his relationships—especially with girlfriend Mareli—heading for the rocks. Money is hardly mentioned, but Pete’s questions and observations supply at least glimpses of life behind the scenes. Quick on the uptake, unegotistical, and well-intentioned, Pete is able to weather embarrassing faux pas and near catastrophes, reaching opening night still tight with buddies and Mareli. Interspersed pages of script dialogue and frequent pen-and-ink spot illustrations further lighten the tone of this feel-good story. - Copyright 2016 Booklist. Loading...
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