'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Wednesday 28 October 2015

Review: Danny Best: Full On


Shove over Andy and Terry--there's a new duo on the block when it comes to romping, funny, quirky illustrated junior fiction.

Jen Storer and Mitch Vane are a tour de force in this meticulously-produced junior fiction novel, combining ceaseless action with brilliant illustrations, comic asides, and plenty of ick (that kids so love).

Danny Best is the best. He's just sooo good at everything, especially winning. He's also good at having a rollicking good time with his local mates, Pugsley the dog, Captain Hook the cat and those pesky critters called adults.
From cops and robbers to hide-and-seek to obstacle courses, races and wilderness jaunts, Danny and his friends are kings (and queens) of the neighbourhood in the first book of this action-packed chapter book series.

My head was reeling while reading this--not only in terms of the active and frequently hilarious play and shenanigans, but with Jen Storer's seamless ability to combine very modern characters with the charm and whimsy of yesterday and its pervasive imaginative play. I so love that about this book.

There's plenty of grime and cockroaches and chook poop to make kids giggle, and each chapter is followed by a quiz kids will love. My favourite part would have to be the record of Pugsley the Dog's shenanigans. Had me laughing aloud.

Perfect for a belly laugh, for generally engaging children of all kinds with books, and for older kids struggling to read.

Title: Danny Best: Full On
Author: Jen Storer
Illustrator: Mitch Vane
Publisher: ABC Books, $16.99 RRP
Publication Date: 21 September 2015
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780733333330
For ages: 6 - 10
Type: Junior Fiction, illustrated