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The Big Splash (2008)

by Jack D. Ferraiolo(Favorite Author)

3.99 of 5 Votes: 4

ISBN

0810970678 (ISBN13: 9780810970670)

languge

English

genre

Humor

publisher

Harry N. Abrams

series

Big Splash

review 1: Even though I thought the concept was great, I was worried that the author might have a difficult time translating some of the more shadier aspects of 1940s crime noir to a middle school setting. I was not disappointed! The book's characters and changes make you laugh, but the shining achievement has to be its tone. While reading it, my inner voice easily able to slip into that "gritty private detective" voice that crime noir has. I can't wait to read the sequel!
review 2: A quick and easy YA book to read. The noir style mystery set in middle school is enjoyable, and interestingly enough explores the psychology of the seventh graders quite accurately. You have the bullies working for the mafia selling contraband sugary sweets, the bullied in an outcast group ca... morelled the Outs, and the normal kids trying to survive by attaching themselves to a clique or a certain profession such as hall monitoring or school journalism. At times, the book can't decide between comedy and drama, but it never gets slow. The main character, Matt Stevens (a private detective- respected but alone), is full of integrity and honesty, and the supporting characters all get enough time to shine. While the mystery of the novel is easy to figure out partway through, the final solution is still thrilling and funny. Also, to keep the book grounded in realism, Matt's home life is difficult and at times heart-wrenching. This is a nice break from the hyper-reality of his middle school filled with mafia, assassins, and conspiracies. The main character's back story and relationship with his mother is what makes this book go a little deeper than the average YA mystery novel. It definitely leaves you waiting for the sequel as not all the loose ends are tied up by the end of this book. less

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