Reviews

Fly on the Wall by Remy Lai

bbliophile's review against another edition

I read quite a lot of middle grade and the age difference between the main character and I usually isn't a problem, but I did feel like it was an obstacle to me enjoying this book in this case since the book was written for a younger audience than I'm used to. But just because I didn't enjoy it doesn't mean it isn't a good book, because it really is. It's written well, has beautiful illustrations, is fun, witty and has good messages and is perfect for it's intended audience (which clearly wasn't me, lol).

oneoflifeslollopers's review against another edition

adventurous emotional funny hopeful lighthearted reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

voya_k's review against another edition

3.0

It was interesting to read a middle-grade graphic novel hybrid starring a flawed antihero that I didn't particularly like. 12 year old Henry is tired of being perceived as a baby, but he definitely acts like one, including his decision to fly to Singapore to see his dad without telling anybody. (Don't worry, it's only a 5 hour flight).

The art was charming, the grandma who loves martial arts dramas was great, and I appreciated learning a little bit about Henry's family's culture. Kids who read, um, Mandarin? (I am too ignorant to know what language Granny is speaking...) will appreciate the included bilingual text.

myliterarylove's review against another edition

4.0

Relatable and heartwarming with cute, comic-style illustrations throughout!

jadencoal's review against another edition

emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

jess_reads's review

adventurous funny

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes

3.0

ozshark's review against another edition

3.0

After enjoying Pie in the Sky so much last year, I was keen to read this one once it came out. It has a very similar look and feel to the first novel, although dealing with a new cast of characters. (Jingwen does make a surprise cameo appearance at one point).

This was a fun story, exploring Henry's desire for independence and not being treated like a baby. His family certainly exceed the usual definition of helicopter parents! We also see Henry sorting through friendship issues. Just like in real life, he makes mountains out of molehills and makes assumptions that lead to misunderstandings. I like that it shows clearly that everything is not all about him (like he thinks it is) and also shines a light on the problems that can arise from only having one friend, and clinging too tightly to that relationship. These are things I observe at school time after time.

A solid middle grade novel

theultmtfangirl's review against another edition

4.0

Me the entire book: I wish I had this kid's confidence to fly to Singapore alone.

Paired with fantastic illustrations and a great narrative (spot-on wuxia drama comparisons!), Fly on the Wall is a delightful read about a boy who wants to prove he's definitely not a baby anymore. Family, friendship, and intrigue (who is Fly on the Wall???) take center-stage, and it can be quite the journey.

emilymyhren's review

adventurous emotional funny hopeful lighthearted fast-paced

• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.25

tien's review against another edition

5.0

tba