 | 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. |
Horton Halfpott
- By Tom Angleberger
- Genre: Humor
Common Sense Media says
Fun, oddball farce reminiscent of Lemony Snicket.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that the lords and ladies of Smugwick Manor -- and quite a few other characters -- are generally a cruel, deceitful lot. There is a wide gulf between those in positions of power and those who are not. Some of the nasties get their just desserts, and the clear message that real class is something inside -- and not a matter of title or possessions.
What's the story?
One morning, long after her tight corset has made M’Lady Luggertuck into a petty tyrant, she decides to loosen it just a little. The Loosening sets in motion a series of unusual events, from dropped firewood to a planned ball to a series of mysterious thefts. When the Luggertuck Lump, a prized wig, and other items disappear, suspicion falls upon Horton Halfpott, the humble kitchen boy. He sets out to prove his innocence, find the thief, and protect the girl he just might be failing for.
Is it any good?
Elements of Tom Angleberger’s writing style -- asides to the reader, some very dark humor -- are reminiscent of Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events, but this tale, in tone and plot, is much less grim. Kids will giggle at the Shipless Pirates, who want for even a plank; hiss at M’Lady and Luther’s callous cruelty; and root for the lionhearted Horton to come out the winner. The plot races along with plenty of twists and turns (pauses to provide backstory give readers a chance to breathe). Brief chapters make this a good choice for kids transitioning to longer books. Angleberger has great fun with language, and the dialogue will have kids in fits.
The author’s scratchy, exaggerated character sketches are a great complement to the over-the-top story. Kids will love the glow-in-the-dark cover by Gilbert Ford.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about the glow-in-the-dark cover. Why do you think the publisher decided to print the book this way? Did it have any influence over your decision to buy the book?
There is a little bit of violence in this book. Does the book's humor make this abuse less threatening for readers? Is violence easier to handle when books are set in fantasy worlds or in the future?
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Kid, 11 years old
May 28, 2011
AGE
A great story!
I think it is a great book. I enjoyed finding out the mystery with Horton
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| Author: | Tom Angleberger |
| Illustrator: | Tom Angleberger |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Humor |
| Publisher: | Amulet Books |
| Publication date: | May 1, 2011 |
| Number of pages: | 224 |
| Hardcover price: | $14.95 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 8 - 12 |
| Read aloud: | 8 |
| Read alone: | 8 |
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