From School Library Journal Gr 3-7-Once again, Mal is trying his hardest toimpress Megan, and hilarity ensues. Invited to her birthday party by her dad,he does his best to stand out, but only gets teased. So, when the schooltalent show is announced, he uses that opportunity to try once again.Unfortunately, they get trapped in a freak snowstorm created by Mal’s weathermachine. Realizing that Chad may be in danger from the storm, Mal sneaks outto save his best friend. Megan, overhearing the situation, decides to followand help. But when giant hail comes crashing down, the danger increases.Interestingly creative, yet simple to follow, the plot twists make this agreat read for new and seasoned graphic-novel fans. The situations are funnyand the adventures are fast paced. Mal may be a genius, but he is still a kidwith insecurities and problems. Chad is the best friend that everyone wants; adog that loves him unconditionally. Simple, clean, black-and-white drawingshave action and expression. Kids will love this one.-Mariela Siegert,Westfield Middle School, Bloomingdale, IL(c) Copyright 2011. Library JournalsLLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistributionpermitted. Read more From Booklist Mal is a child prodigy who routinelyinvents physics-defying inventions like mind-reading hats, moleculereorganizers, and weather-control machines, all of which usually send him andhis erstwhile canine companion, Chad, on whirlwind adventures. This adventureclocks in with a cracking pace that still has room for a deeper sense of Malschildhood yearning and tribulations, some smart gender-role-defyingcharacterizations, and an emotionally satisfying end. McCranie, always adeptat the soft-edged visual charm that makes his characters so engaging, thistime ratchets things up with several dramatic splash pages and some trulystriking visual ideas. Grades 2-5. –Jesse Karp Read more See all EditorialReviews
