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protoman21's review against another edition
4.0
This was a fun book in the same vein as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library. I read it in one sitting, so that is always a good sign of a book that holds your attention. The characters didn't have a whole lot of depth, but the story was fun and I was rooting on Gil the whole way. I was very impressed by the puzzles in this book. Yes, many of them followed similar patterns to puzzles that have been used many times before, but probably most kids reading the book haven't experienced those yet, so that is ok. A lot of times authors who write a book with puzzles in them get a little too creative and the puzzles aren't really there to be solved by a normal person, but are only part of the plot and require a character to make some huge leap in logic. All together this book was pure fun and very approachable for kids of many levels.
eliseblackburn's review against another edition
4.0
This novel is a unique take on the juvenile mystery genre with riddles and puzzles for the curious reader to pause and try to solve before the characters do. But more importantly, the story introduces critical conversations to young readers about judgement and integrity, about honest work and being leader, especially when trying to create harmony among difficult people. Although the ending is more of an exposition dump, it provides a satisfying conclusion to the protagonist's adventure. Be sure to read the author's note for Feldman's beautiful commentary on why everyone, regardless of age, should interact with children's literature.
krystent11's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
Had a hard time picking up any books this month so I figured I’d reread a middle school favorite.
franuary's review against another edition
3.0
It's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, but without the whimsy. I enjoyed the puzzles and the emphasis on problem-solving - I just wish that it were less derivative.
patrick_canoli's review against another edition
4.0
My boyfriend had me read this it was from his childhood it was fun and light hearted read reminded me of my childhood.
madmollyann's review against another edition
5.0
I read this as a read aloud with my 5- and 7-year-olds. It was a fun adventure that was engaging and quirky. Fans of Charlie and the the Chocolate Factory will love the fantastic toy factory.
lannthacker's review against another edition
3.0
A book I'd have loved as a tween, this is a fun, modern readalike for "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" or "The Westing Game." It includes puzzles to solve (which I may have been too lazy to solve myself)!
kristenremenar's review against another edition
3.0
Contest in a toy store - great idea, ok writing. Great for kids who liked "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and "The Westing Game".
amelia_herring's review against another edition
4.0
A fun, modern take on the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory theme. Gil wants to redeem his sullied family name by winning the Gollywhopper Games, sponsored by the Golly Toy & Game Company. Filled with interesting characters and tricky puzzles, this is a quick and fun read.