  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 01/01/2012 Rodney Rathbone thought he would never have to experience an atomic wedgie again when his family relocated from New York City to small-town Ohio. The impulsive boy, whose “mouth kind of acts on its own,” soon discovers that there are dangers everywhere as resident bully Josh threatens Rodney on the first day at his new school. When a stray baseball knocks out Josh during their confrontation, everyone assumes that pint-size Rodney has taken down the school’s Goliath. Over-the-top humor drives the story as Rodney tackles more thugs, snobs, and vindictive teachers with his wit; tries hard to maintain the tough reputation he has inadvertently achieved; and even hopes to woo the most popular girl in school. First-time author Starkey seamlessly connects all of Rodney’s antics with plenty of surprises, and leaves room for a sequel, too. With upbeat dialogue, pop-culture references, and characters named Mr. Feebletop, Mrs. Panic, and Mrs. Whiner, this debut novel will find plenty of appeal with Jeff Kinney fans. - Copyright 2012 Booklist. School Library Journal - 04/01/2012 Gr 4–6—Rodney Rathbone is filled with dread because he's moved to Ohio and is going to a new school. By his own admission, Rodney is afraid of just about everything. When he meets the biggest bully at Baber Intermediate, he's sure considerable harm is coming his way. However, as Josh is ready to punch Rodney in the face, a baseball comes flying out of nowhere and hits his tormenter, bloodying his nose. No one but Rodney sees what happened, and the other kids think he beat up the bully and make him the hero of the day. Rodney's reputation continues as he lucks out at every turn—surviving a haunted house, a death-defying sled trip down the highest hill in town, a hijacking at the school dance, and more. From an especially cruel teacher to a motorcycle gang, to Rodney's former nemesis back in New York, several bullies are after Rodney. The action becomes somewhat predictable with the middle schooler able to somehow escape the abuse and win in every situation. Still, kids will cheer for the appealing underdog and enjoy his success while they identify with his frequent feelings of anxiety and dread. Just as it seems that all is well and Rodney is safe, the book ends with a twist, indicating a possible sequel. Fans of Jeff Kinney's "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" series (Abrams) will enjoy this novel—Tina Martin, Arlington Heights Memorial Library, IL - Copyright 2012 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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