The worst boy in the world

Gr 2-4-With four other complaining sons, Will Woodman's parents don't have time to listen when he needs to vent. Frustrated, he hopes that his Grandad will become his confidant. When he spends Saturdays working with the old man, who is the lighthouse keeper in a seaside village, the two strike a deal to listen to each other's "sob stories." Grandad, though, has a penchant for "one-upping." Poor Will can't seem to top any of his unbelievable stories, which involve shark bites on the head, badgers stealing schoolbags, and a bad run-in with tinfoil. Finally catching some time alone with his dad, Will learns a remarkable and amusing story about himself that he's sure can't be topped. In the end, Grandad helps Will to make a significant discovery about himself and his problems, making this a satisfying, funny, and engaging addition to the series. Quirky cartoon illustrations add to the fun, creating a perfect selection for reluctant readers. Fans of Wendelin Van Draanen's "Shredderman" (Yearling), Dave Keane's "Joe Sherlock" (HarperCollins), and Dav Pilkey's "Captain Underpants" (Scholastic) series will enjoy this book.-Jennifer Cogan, Bucks County Free Library, Doylestown, PA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

With four brothers, Will has a hard time finding anyone to listen to his problems, so he makes a deal with Grandad. Grandad will listen to his grandson's troubles if Will listens to his--which helps Will put his problems in perspective. The humor is painted with too broad a brush, but readers will sympathize with Will's sibling issues. The cartoon illustrations match the text's exaggeration. (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. All rights reserved.