The Not-Just-Anybody Family

Clever, how this plays with tropes but without calling attention to them. One keeps being led to think that bad things are going to happen, that this is going to be one of those 'therapeutic' novels for kids, one in which kids can see that other kids have worse lives than they do so they (the reader) should be able to develop coping skills just like the protagonist.

But, no, this is isn't a morality play. It's a loving portrait of a happy family having some mostly funny adventures. Bigger adventures than most of us have, but nothing bleak. Thank goodness.

They both looked honest, respectable, and miserable. They couldn't wait to get out of court and look like themselves again."

Fried shredded wheat: soften the shredded wheat in hot milk, show more put a scoopful on the griddle, flatten, and fry. Best with lots of syrup.

I would have loved this whole series when I was a child, so I'm rounding up from 3.5 stars." show less

This book takes off like a rocket and what a ride! Kids that fly and break into jail. A dog on his own and a family reunion. A great group of characters. I can't wait to meet them again. This is fun for all ages!

Fun read about a dysfunctional family with plenty of plot for an adult to enjoy. I finished it in one sitting by staying up late...for me, that's a compliment.

A lesson about suspense.