Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Julie M. Prince

Lovers of Roald Dahls CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY will enjoy the story of 12-year-old Gilbert Gil Goodson and his pursuit of winning The Gollywhopper Games.

Gil has been training and studying for a chance to win his ticket out of Orchard Heights. With prize money from the worlds most anticipated competition, hosted by The Golly Toy and Game Company, his family will be able to move wherever they want. For Gil, thats anywhere away from the town where his dad was accused of stealing corporate funds, the town where his family has been shamed and shunned for the past year and a half.

The hitch? The company his dad was fired from is The Golly Toy and Game Company. Gil checked the official rules, and nothing states he is ineligible, but will Golly and Company let him play fair-and-square?

Tension builds from the very first chapter as Gil moves forward through every stage of the games. From waiting in the massive line amongst thousands of prospective players, to narrowing the field of contenders and building a team with some of the very people he most wanted to avoid, Gil faces every challenge with a boldness and integrity reminiscent of Charlie.

This is a fun, interactive read that will have kids alternately riveted to the pages and reaching for scrap paper to solve puzzles on their own. Recommended for inquisitive readers ready for action.