May be good for a reluctant reader. The references to the commercial slogans are funny. ( )

I really enjoyed this book. I liked going into the world with Michael, Bob & Jennifer. Some of the plots were mixed up with other plots, and some plots were messed around with . Except for the plot mix-up and mess up I really enjoyed it. It had some mature & non-mature parts in the story. My favorite part was when Michael K. meet the SPHDZ, and they wanted him to become one! Cannot wait to read the next book!
Definitely a Good Read! ( )

Michael K. is a 5th grader who just transferred to a new school and is having a hard time making new friends because they are all aliens! They then have a mission and a hamster as their leader.
Coming of age for boys

5-6 ( )

Recommended Ages: Gr. 3-5

Plot Summary: Michael K. is new to town and he's worried about fitting in and making friends at PS 858. Right away, the teacher puts him in a group with the two other new kids, who are exceptionally weird. They keep saying phrases from commercials and need help following directions such as sit down and get in line. They ask Michael K for help with the SPHDZ mission but Michael K is trying to establish himself outside of those weirdos. They think they are aliens from Planet SPHDZ and if Michael K doesn't help them get over a million humans from earth to become Spaceheadz, then their leaders will turn earth off. Are they serious? Are they really aliens? What will Michael K. do? Will Agent Umber get to the aliens in time?

Setting: Brooklyn, NY

Characters:
Michael K - 5th grader,
Mrs. Halley - assumes that Michael K will be ok with being called Michael K and that he is now friends with the two new kids
Bob - new boy at school
Jennifer - new girl at school
Major Fluffy - Bob and Jennifer's hamster, seems to talk to them but just sounds like "eek eeee weee" to Michael K.
Agent Umber - works for AAA (Anti-Alien Agency), a screw-up at his job who wants to prove to his boss and himself that he can succeed in catching aliens

Recurring Themes: aliens, new school, friendship, fitting in

Controversial Issues: none

Personal Thoughts: I was disappointed by this book. I had high expectations because of the author. Maybe I need to be a boy to find it funny, or maybe i need to read it with younger boys to see the genius, but I didn't think it was engaging or funny.

Genre: science fiction and humor

Pacing: medium, slower than i expected
Characters:
Frame:
Storyline:

Activity: ( )

Disappointing. I prefer the Time Warp Trio. ( )