
Plot: This book by Dan Gutman is about four fifth graders at Grand Canyon School, that includes a geek, a class clown, a teacher’s pet and slacker. They came together because of one humongous secret-the homework machine. Since the machine (code name Belch) is doing every single sheet and problem of homework for them, they start spending a lot, and I mean A LOT of time together, attracting a lot of attention. Soon, things get out of control and Belch becomes too powerful. Now these four kids are up against their own horrible creation and the loser could end up in the pound, or worse!
Likes: I liked this book because the story is interesting, but the writing style was a bit confusing for me. I thought the narration is a bit omniscient and leaves little for the reader to imagine. It is possible that the book is appropriate for older kids, like 10 years olds. I might come back to this book in another year or so for better understanding. Right now I’m not a fan of this one.
Recommendation: I recommend this book to kids 10 years and older since the narration is a little complex for younger ones.
Rating: 3/5