Hank Zipzer: The Cow Poop Treasure Hunt
Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver, Authors
Candlewick Press, Fiction, Nov. 13, 2018
Suitable for Ages: 7-10
Pages: 144
Themes: Underachiever, Survival Camp, Comical, Adventure
Synopsis:
Underachiever Hank Zipzer goes on an unfortunate school camping trip in a comical, kid-friendly novelization of the popular BBC series based on Henry Winkler’s best-selling books.
What will it take for Mom and Dad to trust Hank to go to the mall unsupervised with his friends? Cooking a family dinner — er, disaster — doesn’t exactly say “responsible.” But what if Hank signs up for the school’s legendary survival camp and makes it through the whole weekend? Maybe he should factor in being teamed up with his nemesis, McKelty, in a leaky tent, not to mention a desperate search for a cell phone in a field of cow pies. . . . The amiable character originated by Henry Winkler — inspired by his own childhood — comes to life in a humorous adventure set in a font designed to boost readability for kids with dyslexia.
Why I recommend this book:
The title is a sure giveaway that this book is a hilarious adventure for reluctant readers. Many kids will identify with Hank, who really wants to prove that he is responsible and gain the trust of his helicopter parents, but somehow he can’t stay on task. He really tries, but is easily distracted. He also can’t resist a good prank and his antics get him in trouble. Hank is a well-developed character that readers will cheer because he is so real and lovable. This story has heart!
Hank’s best friends, Frankie and Ashley, accept Hank for who he is — you never know what’s going to happen when they are together. They are also a nice balance for Hank, even though he convinces them to sign up for the survival camp. Papa Pete is the only one who seems to understand Hank and encourages his parents to “let go.”
This series offers hope to children who learn differently. Based on Henry Winkler’s own struggle with dyslexia as a child and teen, he has taken special care to make sure that the book has been set in a OpenDyslexic font that has been created to increase readability for readers with dyslexia. He continues to invite readers to comment on the font so that improvements can be made. What a gift for children!
Greg Pattridge hosts Marvelous Middle Grade Monday posts on his wonderful Always in the Middle website. Check out the link to see all of the wonderful reviews by KidLit bloggers and authors.
*Review copy provided by publisher.
You’re right, Patricia. The title is definitely a winner! I didn’t know that Henry Winkler was an author and wasn’t aware of his dyslexia. This (and other stories in the series) sound perfect for kids who have dyslexia, as well as those who don’t. I’ll have to check it out.
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Ironically, I found myself having to adjust to the type. It’s worth checking out this funny book/series for kids who have difficulty reading. Winkler and Oliver have been collaborating for years.
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Well, thank you for letting me know about it. I’ll have to check out that font. 🙂
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I read another book in this series and agree Hank is a great character for kids to connect with—especially those who see themselves. This would make a fun read-aloud, too. I caught an episode of the British television show last year and it was also quite good.
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I liked Hank a lot. Not as off-the-wall as Joey Pigza. Hank really tries, but has fun at the same time. I love that it is on British TV. Where did you watch it?
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I really liked this book a lot. Thanks for reminding me. It was so much fun.
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It was fun!
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I never read anything by Henry Winkler but admire him a lot. Glad this is a great character to relate too for kids who struggle with reading.
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This is the first time I’ve read a book in his series. They are so important for reluctant readers. Very funny.
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How wonderful that Henry Winkler has written another book in this series. Kids will just love it!!
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Especially the title! How great is that. Sounds like Winkler.
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HA I love the title. I love the look on the kids face too, he looks so done. XD This sounds so funny?! Especially the fact that he is an underachiever. I’d freaking love to read this, I’ll keep an eye out for this. Plus–the fact that the font is designed to make it easier to read for people for dyslexia is awesome!!
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Yes, I admire the work Winkler and Oliver did to make sure readers with dyslexia could read the books. They really listened to their fans.
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This sounds like a super fun read. Hank sounds a lot like my kid.
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It’s a great story. I just love the title and cover and what Winkler and Oliver have done for kids who have difficulty with reading.
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I feel ya, Hank. I also have a helicopter parent. Ugh! She keeps watching me all day. How do I know? Because I keep watching HER all day!
Love and licks,
Cupcake
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Thanks for the chuckle today, Cupcake. Now it’s out — your mom is a helicopter parent! Guess Archie may feel the same way.
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What a gift! And I love that even the font is carefully chosen. Winkler’s books are all infused with such great humor, too.
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His books are a gift for children. I love how he asks for their feedback.
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Hi, Patricia ~ I learned a lot from your post. I didn’t know Henry Winkler was an author and that he was challenged by dyslexia. It is so important for young people to see themselves in book characters. Thank you for sharing this title for MMGM.
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He’s been writing with Lin Oliver for many years! His books are so important for kids who have dyslexia.
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You had me at Cow Poop. But you lost me at Celebrity Children’s Book Author.
I don’t know what to do.
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Huh? I didn’t mention anything about Celebrity Children’s book author. He co-authors his books with Lin Olive of SCBWI.
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