{Synopsis} – Monsters + Humor + Fun = THE NOTEBOOK OF DOOM!
This series is part of Scholastic’s early chapter book line called Branches, which is aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow!
Alexander has just moved to a new town where he is about to uncover all sorts of monsters! He finds an old notebook with the word “DOOM” inscribed on the front cover. The Notebook of Doom, which Alexander now holds, contains top secret information about monsters! In this first book, Alexander goes up against spooky balloon goons–unique and twisted arm-waving balloon guys! This book is full of humor, engaging black-and-white illlustrations, and of course . . . monsters!
{My thoughts} – Alexander is the new kid in school. His first day of school is anything but normal. He and his dad stop at a diner to get some breakfast and when they come out their car has flat tires. Then his dad sends him to walk to school, but he ends up at the wrong building. It would appear that the school is actually in the middle of being torn down. While he is at the wrong building he finds a notebook with many different monsters listed in it. Then the principal of his school shows up and sends him to the right building the hospital.
This is where things get kind of funky. Alexander gets to school and learns that his class is held in the morgue. He also learns that another boy named Rip is nothing short of a bully. Rip tends to make things a little rough for Alexander at school. Next thing everyone knows is school is canceled for the rest of the day and they are all sent home.
The next morning is Alexanders birthday party. He’d not given out any party invitations, but still Rip shows up. The reason is because he stole one out of Alexander’s school bag when he was picking on him. Alexander soon learns that he can find friends in the most unlikely places and that the notebook he found appears to be true to what it claims.
If I were those two boys, I’d be apt to keep my distance from balloons for a very long time. This book was a fun read. It was funny and kinda scary at a small child’s level. I am sure that this series has the potential to be a big hit with many children. I look forward to reading the next book in the series soon.
Final Conclusion: 5 Star Rating.
