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tishreads's review
1.0
I can't believe how highly this is rated on Goodreads... Ultra repetitive, poorly written, and preachy. Kid is weak and gets picked on, his Navy SEAL uncle makes him get up early and train all summer. Somehow he learns his multiplication tables in 20 minutes when he hasn't learned them after three years of school, just by making himself flashcards and practicing...
Lesson is if you work hard you can achieve your goals, which is good, but it also encourages being willing to physically fight your bullies and never dealing with emotions or fears except through physical exertion.
There is nothing redeeminf about this book.
Lesson is if you work hard you can achieve your goals, which is good, but it also encourages being willing to physically fight your bullies and never dealing with emotions or fears except through physical exertion.
There is nothing redeeminf about this book.
eb00kie's review
4.0
Wish I had this when I was a kid. Great read and very accessible, with a good set of priorities and methods.
foxtrot7's review against another edition
informative
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
foxtrot7's review
funny
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
christinajoyi's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
5.0
small_town_librarian's review
5.0
Good message for kids (and their parents) about how working hard allows you to accomplish goals. Also gives advice and good messages about dealing with bullies.
natecoumbe31's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
blueeyedshook's review against another edition
4.0
This is just a great series for kids! It both entertains and teaches valuable lessons along the way. Even my sons said in a book report that was what they liked about it, that it helps them learn some thing about real life. As a sequel, we've already met Marc and seen him grow. This second book catches up with Marc after he's already implemented some great growth changes in his life, but like any kid, he still has a lot to learn! So when his uncle returns for the summer break again, Uncle Jake has new lessons to teach.
Of course, I think it's a little rigid for a kid this age....to never have any free time really and be a kid who is either working or in class or working out. I mean, can't a child be a child? But at the same time, I think it works out great for the character of Marc, and my sons saw that and noticed. It also teaches how taking a lazy day (not just a day off, but a lazy day) doesn't always feel good. I know that feeling as an adult. It might be missing the message that we all need a little rest....but these days, most kids take too much rest in my opinion. So it's valuable to show a kid who knows how to work hard and sees the benefits of it.
Of course, I think it's a little rigid for a kid this age....to never have any free time really and be a kid who is either working or in class or working out. I mean, can't a child be a child? But at the same time, I think it works out great for the character of Marc, and my sons saw that and noticed. It also teaches how taking a lazy day (not just a day off, but a lazy day) doesn't always feel good. I know that feeling as an adult. It might be missing the message that we all need a little rest....but these days, most kids take too much rest in my opinion. So it's valuable to show a kid who knows how to work hard and sees the benefits of it.
sstarke's review against another edition
5.0
Excellent children's book that my son really loves. Teaches great lessons.