Back on Track

New reviews coming soon! I'll be importing my work from the past two years, but in the meantime,
I'm reclaiming my small place on the web.

Tuesday, December 9, 2003

Children's Book Review

The Road to Weird
by Peggy Tibbetts
ISBN-10: 1869942590
Review by Heather Froeschl


A two-story collection for those who like a touch of the abnormal, "The Road to Weird", is a gem among pebbles. Peggy Tibbetts has captured youth and created a couple of memorable tales that will be enjoyed by older readers and their parents alike, IF the kids will share their copy!

In the first story, Carly has moved to a new home, an old log cabin, complete with its very own ghost. Carly finds a hidden trap door in her closet, and discovers a clue to what might be making her door slam, her room cold and footsteps to be heard in the night. Her teenaged sister thinks Carly is pulling pranks and Carly is determined to clear her name. Will her parents believe her? Will she find friends in this rural community? This mystery and ghost story will have the reader turning pages to find out exactly what is up with Carly's ghost.

The second story is maybe a little weirder, but an awesome adventure in itself. Harpo Marx awakens to find herself in a hospital bed. She isn't quite sure who the folks around her are, nor why she would be called Harpo Marx, but figures her parents must have a good sense of humor or are just a tad wacky. As her memory clears she begins to see things in her mind, things like accidents happening and the cause of her hospital roommate's head injury at a construction site. Apparently, falling on the balance beam during gymnastics can cause more than a bump or concussion: it can cause psychic phenomena! Harpo is the victim of teasing, headaches and a major problem with gymnastic team tryouts. Doctor's orders aside, her visions become the cause of adventure, instead of much needed rest. Is there a higher purpose to her newfound ability? Will Harpo's life ever get back to normal? Readers of all ages will love this story. It's easy to get sucked into the trials and tribulations of intrusive teachers, rumor spreading and life saving weirdness.

Ms. Tibbetts is a talented storyteller. "The Road to Weird" will surely bring her great admiration, as kids everywhere will spread the word about her wonderfully weird collection. Peggy, thanks for bringing a bit of the strange into an enjoyable read!

No comments:

Post a Comment