Ben Yokoyama and the cookie of perfection

Gr 3--5--When third grader Ben Yokayama receives a fortune cookie from his best friend Janet, the message inside gives him a jolt of inspiration: "Practice Makes Perfect." This not only explains why his mom's pancakes are burnt to a crisp and why the jersey his dad washed is covered in Chapstick grease, but also why Ben can't hit every baseball during his games or play Debussy's "Clair de Lune" just right. They all just need more practice! And when he meets new student Darby (secretly a superhero), he realizes that not only is perfection possible, but if he just practices more, he can be perfect himself. His quest for perfection has a few bumps along the way, including the realization that being perfect isn't all Ben thought it would be. Using a similar style to Dave Kinney and Lincoln Peirce, this highly illustrated novel will have middle grade readers laughing out loud. The comic-style illustrations take a central place in this novel, as they not only tell part of the story, but also infuse humor into almost every page. Careful layouts keep the plot moving at a quick pace. Among the high jinks are some tender moments as well, including important lessons imparted by teachers, neighbors, and friends. In this third installment of the "Cookie Chronicles," readers are given a generous dose of laughter and a reminder that perfection is only attainable when you are the best version of yourself. VERDICT This series will be a huge hit for readers of "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" and "Big Nate." A great addition to all middle grade collections.--Louie Lauer, Jefferson Elem. Sch., Fargo, ND

A fortune cookie sets Ben on the road to perfection. One morning, after Ben Yokoyama's mom burns the pancakes, his dad ruins Ben's jersey while doing the laundry, and his best friend, Janet, is late, he is overwhelmed with frustration and anger. So, when his fortune cookie says "practice makes perfect," Ben decides that everyone in his life, including himself, just needs more practice to get to perfection. An opportunity arises when Ben makes friends with Darby, the new kid who has a secret, extraordinarily accomplished alter ego, Darbino. Darbino gives Ben lessons in being perfect, and at first, Ben is overjoyed. But reaching perfection proves more difficult than he imagined, especially when it seems he has to give up baseball, something he loves--even if he can't do it perfectly. And when Ben's pursuit for perfection ends in deceit and near disaster, he realizes that maybe being perfect isn't really all that great. This third installment of the Cookie Chronicles is just as hilarious and entertaining as its predecessors. Silly black-and-white illustrations and dramatic analogies fill the pages. Japanese and White Ben tackles challenges like accepting your imperfections, living up to expectations, trying your best, and repairing broken relationships. The Japanese concept of kintsugi--the art of repairing broken pottery with gold seams--is woven into the story. Another delightful, sidesplitting chronicle. (pancake tutorial) (Humor. 8-12) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.