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blogginboutbooks's review
4.0
What's it like to be a First Child and grow up in the White House? I'd like to know! I don't know how realistic SHAKING UP THE HOUSE is (probably not very), but it does have an intriguing premise. It also offers some fun facts and trivia about the White House. I also like that the story features young women of color and addresses the unique pressure that is on them, not just because of their positions in society but because of their ethnicity. The prank war at the center of the novel is entertaining, even if the pranks are actually pretty mean-spirited. I'm also not sure such a battle would end so easily in reality. Still, I think kids will enjoy this lighthearted story with its unique setting and comical plot. I didn't love it, but I liked it well enough.
If I could, I would give this book 3 1/2 stars; since I can't, I'm rounding up.
If I could, I would give this book 3 1/2 stars; since I can't, I'm rounding up.
neglet's review
5.0
A fun romp about two sets of siblings unexpectedly sharing the White House and finding themselves in an escalating prank war. Love all the details about life in the White House for kids.
miszjeanie's review
4.0
Shaking Up the House is a fun, insightful look at life in the White House, featuring an optimistically diverse set of First Families. This middle-grade book explores a variety of themes from public perception, racial prejudice, the bonds of sisterhood and family, as well as the need for basic kindness. There’s also a First Ferret, which may be a fun addition for kids who enjoy books about animals. The story is also told from four perspectives (in third person POV) which is fantastic for those looking for books with multiple narrators or POVs. If you’re looking for a funny, enjoyable, quick read (and you don’t mind pranks) this would be an excellent choice.
Read my full review on my blog.
Read my full review on my blog.
mariathelibrarian's review
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
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
3.5
megs_s's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
readingthroughtheages's review
4.0
Living under the White House roof are the incoming President’s daughters and the outgoing’s. After a prank, that was supposed to be a welcoming gesture, turns into a prank war, will the girls keep their friendship or turn into enemies?
emilysbookishlife's review
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
jodil's review
3.0
Silly and face-paced, some Prank Sinatras who are open about their experiences with racism and pressure whilst under the microscope that comes with their parents' careers.