Junior Library Guild

• The latest episode of this appealing chapter-book series introduces wacky new characters, such as Nick “the Pumpernator” Pumpernickel, a heavily muscled loaf of pumpernickel bread; and Pikyor Pocketo, a suspicious fellow who recently arrived from the island of Kleptonia.
• Laurie Keller’s energetic and playful text is filled with characters’ interjections. For example, when Arnie says he thinks they can “beat Nick Pumpernickel,” Beatnik Bill, a fellow in a beret and black turtleneck, leans in to ask, “Did someone say beatnik?”
• Entertaining scenes will keep readers giggling. Arnie and Peezo prepare to compete in the game show by hitting the weight room (to tone their “buns of dough”). They’re unable to lift a single barbell, but when the personal trainer drops her pencil, the Dough Bros combine their efforts—limbs trembling under the strain—and manage to lift it. “I think our work here is done,” Peezo announces, puffed up with confidence.
• Engaging illustrations appear on every page of this graphic novel, and bold, expressive fonts capture the spirit of the dialogue.