 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
The Adventures of Blue Avenger
- By Norma Howe
- Genre: Coming of Age
Common Sense Media says
Quirky book's mature content is best for teens.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that some sexual content and language make this best for teens.
What's the story?
Secret champion of the underdog, modest seeker of truth, fearless innovator of the unknown! When teenager David dons a blue vest and headdress and changes his name to Blue Avenger, he becomes the unlikely hero of his high school. This witty tale of teen eccentricity, unlikely coincidences, and thoughtful musings keeps readers chuckling and wondering.
Is it any good?
Part comedy, part adventure, and part witty discourse on free will vs. determinism, this delightfully oddball romp is a breath of fresh air. Thought-provoking yet lighthearted, poignant, and at times hilarious, the story deliberately stretches credulity to show that there are no coincidences. The author takes the reader backstage, behind the scenes of Blue's life -- and of life in general. Skirting the edge of off-color humor (the book's knockout opening pages discuss the moment of Blue's conception in comically clinical terms), Norma Howe hooks the reader into a raucous philosophical dialogue in which events are traced backward to their unlikely -- and usually unknown -- causes, until all of life's events begin to seem like the most farfetched coincidences.
A book like this may get even the most reticent adolescent thinking and talking. This happily quirky way of looking at life is a tonic, renewing the reader's faith in the wonder and joy of our own little lives.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about the book's questions about free will. To what extent do you believe in free will? What about coincidence? How do you think the young hero of the story would be received if he showed up at your school dressed up as a super hero?
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AGE
Great read.
This book is witty, exciting, and hilarious. I recomend it to anyone in high school or that can read.
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AGE
Who doesn't like lemon meringue?
Clean humor, and a fun read, for readers of all ages. What little boy didn't dream of being a super hero? I'd have to say this book does an even better job at depicting the possibilities of an individual to accomplish what he desires, even better than the classic batman character. I can't remember the last time a read such a refreshing book that I wasn't hestitant to share with anyone that I came across looking for something to read. Highly recommended, short and fast to read. Go and get it.. you wont regret it.
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| Author: | Norma Howe |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Coming of Age |
| Publisher: | HarperCollins Children's Books |
| Publication date: | January 1, 1999 |
| Number of pages: | 230 |
| Paperback price: | $6.99 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 12 - 14 |
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