Review Detail

Lighthearted humor is the hallmark of this story. Hooey is a boy with big ideas and grand plans. Twig is his best friend and consistent fall guy, and Will is his brainy brother who graciously helps make Hooey's big ideas a reality. Madcap mishaps ensue, but all in a warm-hearted way. Every character is treated to Hooey's incisive and perceptive narrative. There's a bit of sly rebellion against authority and some pokes taken at a bully, but the overall story is good clean fun. Perfect for younger readers of the genre.

I read this book aloud with my middle school boy, and he not only found it funny and interesting, he really enjoyed the illustrations. They fit well with the madcap mishaps throughout the story and will bring it to life for younger readers.

Where this book really shines is the relationship between Hooey and his brother. Older brothers (especially brainy ones) can often come across as pompous or know-it-all, and that's if they bother with their little brothers at all. In Hooey, however, Will cares about his little brother and commits to helping him without ever coming across as condescending. Readers will enjoy seeing a close knit sibling relationship.

Final Verdict:

Warm relationships, hilarious adventures, and mishaps that will draw in even the most reluctant reader make this story a must for any shelf of upper elementary or middle grade literature.