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Teacher's Pest: Tales from Lovecraft Middle School #3
Unavailable
Teacher's Pest: Tales from Lovecraft Middle School #3
Unavailable
Teacher's Pest: Tales from Lovecraft Middle School #3
Audiobook2 hours

Teacher's Pest: Tales from Lovecraft Middle School #3

Written by Charles Gilman

Narrated by Kristoffer Tabori

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

4/5

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Currently unavailable

Currently unavailable

About this audiobook

DON'T BE FOOLED by his friendly smile, his perfect manners, or his shiny red apple. Student council president Howard Mergler is actually a sinister bug-monster in disguise-and he's summoning swarms of roaches, wasps, fleas, and head lice into the corridors of Lovecraft Middle School!  Twelve-year-old Robert Arthur is the only student who can stop him--but he'll need help from his best friends: the school bully, the school ghost, and an extremely courageous two-headed rat.

This third novel in the Lovecraft Middle School series begins right where Professor Gargoyle and The Slither Sisters ended-with more action, more adventure, and more outrageous monsters!

LanguageEnglish
Release dateMay 7, 2013
ISBN9780804122887

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Reviews for Teacher's Pest

Rating: 3.810679548543689 out of 5 stars
4/5

103 ratings34 reviews

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  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    (This review will also be posted on librarything.com,and amazon.com when eligible)I absolutely loved this book and could not put it down! Basically Robert is put into a new school with no friends(Lovecraft middle school) the only person he knows is Glenn. A boy who has been bullying him for SO long(how fun right?)The first day of school there are rats in all of the students lockers, but no holes to show how they got in there. He is dreading his days at school until one day while taking a class trip to the new cool library he gets lost, and finds himself in a dusty, cob web, moth ball smelling room(but the school is brand new, and so clean...what!?) He grabs a suspicious looking book and when he goes into his book bag later that day a two headed rat pops out! Amongst other weird things he becomes friends with the boy Glen who is bullying him after tentacles try to suck him into Roberts locker. If things couldn't get any more strange you're wrong. The teacher is eating hamsters, the girl Karina is really a ghost, there are portals in the school, two girls(that are twins) go missing, and return...who knows who else is involved in this!I am most definitely looking forward to book number two. Thank you Charles Gilman for allowing me to have a early preview your book! It is awesome!
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    This is Book One in Tales From Lovecraft Middle School, and it is an auspicious beginning! Lovecraft fans will be delighted to have this bridge to ease their children into the world of classic horror. While less complex than Harry Potter, Lovecraft Middle School offers plenty of interest for the middle-grade reader. Robert Arthur will attend Lovecraft Middle School, a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility, while his friends attend a different school, so he's naturally apprehensive. On his first day, the only person he knows there is Glenn Torkells, the bully who has extracted a Dweeb Tax from Robert for years. He does meet a girl named Karina who seems a promising friend, but things become very strange when rats leap from student lockers on the very first day and Robert gets literally lost in the library, winding up in a strange, moth-ball-scented room from another century.While the Harry Potter books take place over the course of a school year, the first Lovecraft Middle School book spans just three weeks, long enough for Robert and his unlikely sidekicks to learn that things are not as they seem at the school (made from recycled materials - but recycled from WHAT?) and to set up neatly the second installment, THE SLITHER SISTERS. I found this book to be great fun. The lenticular portrait of Professor Goyle that shifts to reveal his horns is inspired (my ARC also included the lenticular portrait from THE SLITHER SISTERS to use as a bookmark, and this one looks just as fun). Robert is likable and relatable, and his curiosity and fear are both warranted. I liked Karina quite a bit, and Glenn turns out to be more complex than Robert had thought.I would say this is easier reading than Harry Potter, which may make it a good choice for reluctant readers. Fantasy and horror readers will also find much to like in the creepy halls of Lovecraft Middle School. Have a copy of Lovecraft's stories handy for more advanced readers - they'll enjoy the references even more having read some of the original material.Source disclosure: I received a review copy of this title from the publisher.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Lovecraft Middle School is brand new and high-tech, but it hides a terrible secret. Robert starts the year by meeting a strange girl and adopting a two-headed rat. His science teacher is eccentric to the point of frightening, and the lockers are more than they seem. This was fun. I feel like I should read some actual Lovecraft before picking up the next installment in this series. I didn't feel like I was missing anything major but it'd be nice to get all the references.
  • Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
    2/5
    Robert's school has been redistricted and he will now be attending Lovecraft Middle School. Although Lovecraft is brand new there are rats in the building, an old attic, tentacles rising from lockers and disappearing students. Robert ends up making several unlikely new friends and starts investigating.

    So far this has potential to be interesting but feels unfinished. This book is definitely all about the plot as relationships develop much too easily. Unfortunately so much of the plot has been left out or left for future books that this book feels a little unfinished.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    This book was a lot more enjoyable than I expected. This book was another one that I could barely out down, and that's saying a lot seeing I'm not really into Middle Grade books. Well written, characters believable, and even a little creepy.

    It only got a 4 because I wasn't blown away but still loved it, if goodreads allowed for me to give it a 4.5, I would have. I will going on to the second book and allowing my 10 year old to read it.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I forget how quickly I can breeze through novels. I started it this morning during my break at work and just finished it during lunch. I have my nephew at the age where he won't read anything unless you read it too so I've been suckered into reading his type of novels now. The title/picture is what caught his attention so we had to get it. Reading through it by myself it wasn't a terrible book kind of predictable (but that's my wise years of reading speaking there - my nephew was a bit more surprised at the events) but a cute novel. It reads pretty quickly and the chapters are short which made it easy for a bedtime read. The pictures compliment the book nicely and help to add to the story.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    As a first book in a series, 'Professor Gargoyle' really draws you into the mysterious world of Lovecraft Middleschool, introducing enough mystery and strangeness to keep you wanting to read the series, whilst the main focus point of the plot is wrapped up nicely within the pages of this first instalment.

    Robert is a likeable and, in some ways, relatable character with his love for books and intelligent curiosity. The side characters were also really interesting and added a lot to the story.

    The writing style was enjoyable and fast-paced. I had to bear in mind that this is meant for younger readers whilst reading it because there were points where things were resolved extremely quickly, but overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the sequels!
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    I'm really getting into middle grade lately, and this is probably one of the top middle grade books i've ever read. I expected the illustrations to be beautifully executed, because lets face it, Quirk books puts out the most expertly crafted books ever, and this one was no exception. The covers for this series are genius with the hallograms, and that in of itself made me want to read this series.I loved this book and the weird, quirkiness of Lovecraft Middle School, the book grasped me from the very first page, and I can't wait to continue on with this series. Whether you have young children, or are just looking for a great, fun story, check out this series. It's a series, that not only girls will love, but boys, and adults will love!!
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Professor Gargoyle is a good mix of humor and horror. The Lovecraft Middle School has recently opened and is a modern, state of the art building, however, something ancient and sinister lurks beneath its shiny new facade. Robert Arthur and his friend Glenn are determined to find out the hidden secrets of the school. Fun, fast paced read with creepy illustrations. I recommend this book to fans of the Goosebumps series.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    This book was a lot more enjoyable than I expected. This book was another one that I could barely out down, and that's saying a lot seeing I'm not really into Middle Grade books. Well written, characters believable, and even a little creepy.

    It only got a 4 because I wasn't blown away but still loved it, if goodreads allowed for me to give it a 4.5, I would have. I will going on to the second book and allowing my 10 year old to read it.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    This book took me back to reading stories like The Witches by Roald Dahl. It was a little twisted, dark and amazingly fun and imaginative.Robert is in an area of town that has been re-districted, and now he has to attend the new school, Lovecraft Middle School. He's pretty shy and once he gets to school we can see that he is bullied. That's right, how lucky is he to have his bully reassigned to the new school as well.His teachers and the whole feeling of his new school feel off, and he's never felt completely comfortable. But when a girl befriends him and he soon discovers a two headed rat he takes on as a pet. His life begins to feel more comfortable.That is, until he notices some dark and very strange things about his professor, Mr Goyle.Not only are the staff at the school acting shady, but the school itself seems to be hiding secrets of it's own.When Robert finds a stairway in the library that leads to a hidden attic, things begin to really unravel and creatures from different worlds will soon change his life forever.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    The Good Stuff Fast paced - storyline would keep even the most reluctant reader engaged and not wanting to put book down Twisted and funny (Alot of Whedon type humour) Kids act like kids their age should (well except for the paranormal stuff) Many of the adult characters are realistic and not idiots (yes I know its a pet peeve) Really how many of us at one time didn't think their teachers were evil (I'm still pretty sure Mr Turcok was) Robert is a likeable character and many will understand his predicament - lots of changes when you go to a new school and don't know anyone. Also growing up is hard I'm sorry even if this series sucked I would pick them up for the cover alone -- my preschooler plays with them for hours In Slither Sisters (mentioned a little in Professor Gargoyle) there is a fantastic Librarian character. Ok they made her old and a tad frumpy, but she still is an awesome character Great morals/messages worked into the story without making it obvious - love an author who can do that effectively The library is awesome, I totally want to work there Will definitely be picking up the next book in the series & will be saving them for Jesse to read when he gets older (and hopefully Jake will eventually read them oo)The Not So Good Stuff The cover might freak out the less adventuresome reader (aka my son - won't even pick it up & he would love the story) Do you have any idea how many post it notes I used while reviewing and how hard it was to just pick only 6 quotes (since I am reviewing both at once)Favorite Quotes/Passages "He knew the only thing more embarrassing than sitting alone at his new middle school would be sitting with his mommy" from Professor Gargoyle"These can be filled with downloaded books and checked out from the library - as long as you are very careful with them of course. Personally I'm a little old fashioned. I still prefer the feel of a real book with real pages. The best feeling in the world if you ask me. But we have to embrace the future don't we children?" Professor Gargoyle"No one chooses to go to the principal's office," Glenn continued. "You avoid this place. You don't volunteer to come here and hang out." The Slither Sisters"But I can't win," Robert insisted. "I'm not a leader."Ms Lavinia shrugged. "Well, I'm afraid you need to become one." The Slither Sisters"If my brother learns I'm helping you, he'll rip my head off," she said. "And that's not what your language arts teachers call hyperbole.Who Should/Shouldn't Read Perfect for the reluctant reader This is one that would even appeal to the stronger middle school reader as it is just such a fun and wicked read Adults will even get a kick out of the series (I sure did -- but lets face it I'm not really an adult - even-though I am 42)4.75 Dewey'sI received The Slither Sisters from Random House in exchange for an honest review & I purchased Professor Gargoyle because no matter what I always have to read a series in order (but you don't have to read them in order)
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    I won a copy of Tales from Lovecraft Middle School #1: Professor Gargoyle (Strange Tales) by Charles Gilman in a giveaway on Library Thing. This book was Outstanding- I loved it~ This is a book the whole family can enjoy.... I read this book in three hours and could not put it down. The characters were fantastic and the Bad Guy was just the right amount of Evil for this book. I can not wait to continue on with this series. I'm so glad I got the chance to read this book (I was after it for awhile) I'm now going to read this book to my 12 and 9 yr old daughters. The fantasy in this book was so much fun* I can not wait to see the cover in person on book number 2- it is pretty cool :) This is a favorite of 2012 and I plan on reading this book a few times. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a light-fun-silly read which sparks the imagination. The illustrations in this book were superb and this is going to be a great series to collect* Fantastic Read~ Thank You! Reesa***
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Review based on ARC.This book is listed for ages 9+ .. it's not far off. This book is perfect for kids in the 8-12 age range. It is a fun, fast-paced, entertaining read. Robert Arthur has been transferred to the brand new Lovecraft Middle School, where he knows no one and has no friends. Unfortunately, there is just one other student from his old middle school - the bully who appears intent on continuing the tradition at a new school. Robert meets a quick friend in a girl who sympathizes with him after a bullying episode, but it takes him some time to finesse the relationship after Robert initially pushes her away in embarrassment.Robert quickly learns that things at Lovecraft are not always as they appear. By the end of the book, without presenting any spoilers, Robert has discovered the secret of the school, has found 3 (or perhaps 4) best friends, and is ready for the year ahead of him, whatever that year may bring.The plot is simple and the characters are engaging. The more sinister aspects of the book are not too dark and not too scary. There's just a touch of it all, which is perfect for the 3rd to 7th grader who loves Halloween.As a side note - the "lenticular cover" (it changes images) is beautifully done. My husband said to me the other day, "I really like Professor Gargoyle!" Based solely on that cover ;)
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I recieved this book as part of the LT early reviewer program. Lovecraft Middle school is not like other middle schools. It's brand new, high tech and environmentally friendly. It also happens to have 2 headed rats, a hamster eating science teacher, and rooms that appear out of nowhere. This is a fun, quick read for late elementary and midlle school kids. I would place it along the same level as the Lemony Snicket Unfortunate Event Series. The plot is interesting and the setting is easy for students to relate to. The best part by far however, has got to be the great cover that changes from grumpy science teacher to devious gargoyle at the tip of a hand. Lots of fun and a great start to what should be an interesting series!
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Have you ever experienced going to a new middle school without your friends? Met a two-headed rat in your backpack? Have a serious "emergency exit?" And you will never believe a crazy scientist who uses spells to create monsters. Robert experiences all that in this novel.I would recommend this book for children 8-12 who like scary, but funny, stories. I am looking forward to seeing the secrets of the twins in book #2.(The above was written by my eight-year-old son, who I asked to read it as well. I thought it was a good novel, but could definitely use some more depth -- more details about Robert's family, more than just three or four characters, etc. I think 12-14 year olds may prefer to read more sophisticated books.I really enjoyed the description of the Lovecraft Middle School library, though. Brilliant!)
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Strange things are afoot at Lovecraft Middle School! Professor Goyle is not your average teacher, and soon Robert Arthur, a new student, is running into giant spiders, spells in leather-bound books, a two-headed rat in his backpack, and a mysterious, boarded-up "emergency exit." This new book for middle grade readers, by Charles Gilman, is crafted in what's called a "loving homage" to the late Weird Tales author, H.P. Lovecraft. The flickering image on the cover, which flips back and forth between Professor Goyle in his everyday suit and tie, and his devilish alter ego, is sure to catch kids' attention, and the story is spooky and creepy, but won't make young readers sleep with the lights on. A great read for Halloween --and later.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    I think Gilman's trying to catch lighting in a bottle with this book. The only problem is, someone else already did it. Her name's J.P. Rowling. Yes, Tales from Lovecraft Middle School seems like a poor man's Harry Potter. The characters don't necessarily have magic themselves, but there's plenty of magic around. Also, we have Ron and Hermione stand-ins (with a little twist that I won't ruin here), a two-headed rat instead of Hedwig, a "Master" instead of He-who-must-not-be-named, and of course, at least one faculty member that probably isn't going to keep tenure. All that's fine to some extent I suppose - I think there are plenty of readers who would love to head back to Hogwart's (or whatever else it's being called by a new author). The main problem here, is that Rowling seemed to have respect for her readers. She didn't spoon feed them. Yes, the books were written for children, but the kids had to work a little to understand the words and vocabulary. To some extent, at least for the American audience, that was because of cultural differences that came through in the language. But here, it was very elementary. It wouldn't be a challenge to read at all, so there's not a great sense of accomplishment. Further, since it was a short book, the character development was minimal. Lastly, I think the big selling point that seems to be driving the book's pr is the morphing cover image. You can't see it here, but it goes from a dour looking old man into the demon you see in the LT cover image. It's neat, but it would be neat for a poster too I suppose without have a book attached behind it. Don't judge a book by its cover - but don't try to just sell a book by the cover. Content is king!
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    This is a fun kickoff to a new series for kids who like creepy characters and mild horror mixed with a regular school attended by normal middle- school students. Ah yes ...all is not what it appears to be..... The best device to spark interest is the amazing lenticular cover on each of these high-quality hardback books. This first in the series shows a genial, old teacher that shifts to a scary, crimson gargoyle when the book is tilted back and forth! The next book in the series will feature twin girls who morph into eerie, Medusa-like creatures. These "shifting" covers are very cool! Hopefully, they will draw in kids to not only pick up the books but then to open them up and check out the story.The main characters and the middle school setting are somewhat predictable but there is a moderately interesting back story with ghosts, monsters, and the potential for better plot lines to come. The writing is at a good level for kids from mid-elementary grades on up.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    If I were 10-14 years old and was just introduced to the Lovecraft Middle School series, I would spend all my allowance on getting the whole set. I just might anyway!Professor Gargoyle by Charles Gilman is now one of my favorite book series. I can't wait for the next ones to come out. The series is targeted toward a younger audience but is also a delight for adults as well. It kind of reminds me of Buffy the Vampire Slayer in the sense that most of the people are completely clueless of all the supernatural upset that is going on around them and only Robert Ashton and his two best-friends are what keeps the danger at bay.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Move over Goosebumps - Lovecraft Middle School has come to town! As a librarian I can't wait to get this book on the shelves - kids are going to love it! Not only will the covers have them scrambling to the shelf, but the story is well written, the characters well developed, the plot moves at a lovely pace, and at the end of the book you're ready for more.This series opener sets the stage for an epic battle between good and evil fought out between parallel dimensions, and due to an unfortunate sideffect of the recycled materials used to create the new state-of-the art building, Lovecraft Middle School will be the battleground. I'm looking forward to the new and hideous characters that are sure to "cross over" in the subsequent books. Keep them coming!
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    When a new state-of-the-art middle school is built in the little town of Dunwich, everyone is excited, except for Robert Arthur who gets redistricted there away from his friends. From the first day of school, there is always something weird going on. Rats in lockers, creepy teachers, disappearing students, and strange vortexes are just a normal part of the day at Lovecraft Middle School. After a scary encounter with his science teacher, Professor Goyle, Robert is on a mission to unlock the many secrets of his new school and find out just what is up!Before I get into my review of the content, I want to talk about the book itself. I love the creepy lenticular cover! It is what hooked me on giving this book a try. If you scare easily, you definitely don't want it staring out at you, eyes moving as you walk past. I also found the binding to be strong and sturdy, which I think is good for kids who will inevitably be rough with their belongings. The pages are of a thicker stock, the illustrations are beautifully done, and I love the pattern that was chosen for the inside covers and flyleaf. This is a beautifully packaged book, and I couldn't help but want to bring that up for potential readers who also enjoy the actual look and feel of their books! Now on to the content!Even though I'm not the target audience, I found Professor Gargoyle to be great fun! While I felt that the book took awhile to really get into the meat of the story, once it did the pace was quick and exciting! By the end I didn't want the book to be over, and since I'm 26 I was slightly embarrassed that now I really want to read the next book in the series! The series is a nod to H.P. Lovecraft's work, but I felt that the book was very reminiscent to R.L. Stine's Goosebumps series, and had the same quirky vibe as Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar. In fact, I think that the reason I enjoyed this book so much is because it tapped into my nostalgia of growing up as a child in the 90s with so many fun books like this to read (and I read lots of them!).While not perfect, I found this book to be fun, entertaining, quirky and funny! I can see kids really enjoying this series the way I enjoyed Goosebumps and Fear Street. I'd definitely recommend it to children who enjoy scary stories and mysteries, or to adults like myself that want the feel of nostalgia without having to read the same books over and over! I have high hopes for this series, and because of that, I give Professor Gargoyle four stars!
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    From time to time I will review children's books. This one is a very adventurous and exciting book that will definitely keep the reader's attention. It centers around a boy named Robert Arthur who is adjusting to a new school without any friends. He is a lover of books, and his curiosity to read more leads him to learn secrets about his school that are very well hidden.There's more to the people at Lovecraft Middle School than what you see. Not everything is as it appears to be. We all think our teachers may be some odd creature, but who ever found out if it was true? Robert goes beyond and fights his fears to help those that in their direst moments of need. It has several twists and bends that you never know what to expect. It's a fun read and tons of entertainment. It's a great children's book or even a few hours read for an adult. Either way, I think you will enjoy the story.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    This book is exactly as fun as I was hoping it would be. The cover is pretty nifty. It's been a long while since I've seen a lenticular anything that actually worked like it was supposed to. The story is entertaining, a good blend of horror, comedy, and adventure. It works exactly like how a kid's homage to Lovecraft should be.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Starting with the cool lenticular cover this is a great book. Robert goes to Lovecraft Middle school, a new school. The technology is new. Electronic bulletin boards have replaced cork boards. The lockers have keypads instead of combination locks. Robert makes three unlikely friends very quickly: A two-headed rat, a ghost-girl from another dimension that happens to be 1983, and the boy that used to bully him in elementary school.Robert knows odd things are happening at Lovecraft Middle, but his science teacher, Garfield Goyle, is the oddest.It seems like almost every character has a secret, and some aren't even revealed in this first book of the series. The plot is very good and has some surprises and suspenseful moments. There are even some good illustrations. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Easy read with plenty of action and monsters to keep the kids hooked. Cool cover will make them grab it off the shelf.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I admit, it was the series that caught my eye: Tales from Lovecraft Middle School. I'm a sucker for Lovecraftian horror. This book had lots of promise; it was fulfilled on a middle school reader's level. Yes, there was gentle horror for those of us used to Lovecraft -- I would certainly think it appropriate for the target audience. There was also a not-subtle message about bullying. I've read too much in this genre to be surprised by this predictable book. However, for the young reader, I think it would be a page-turner. I certainly read it quickly.Recommended for Lovecraftian completists and for middle-grade readers who like spooky stories.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Robert's school district was restructured, which means all his friends attend his old school and he has to go to the new Lovecraft Middle School, where the only kid he knows is his bully, Glenn. Robert soon meets Karina, a girl who seems annoyingly concerned with getting Robert to stand up to Glenn. She also knows more about hidden rooms of the school than the staff. When two of his classmates disappear, tentacles try to pull Glenn into a school locker, and Robert sees the science teacher eat a hamster, he starts to think something strange is going on at the new school.The cover is a very cool hologram that shows a normal, grim man, and then a grinning demon.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Professor Gargoyle (Tales from Lovecraft Middle School #1) by Charles Gilman is a very odd and wonderful tale for middle grade kids. This school is not like any other and a science teacher like the kids have never known. Strange things are happening and kids are missing. There is a girl Robert meets and takes him to the attic, but come to find out there is no attic and the the girl doesn't exist! It is a fun and fantastic read with lots of mystery, fantasy, and excitement. Oh, and a 2 headed rat that is Robert's friend.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Professor Gargoyle: Tales from Lovecraft Middle School #1 Robert Arthur has been plucked out of his usual school, and placed in Lovecraft Middle School on the south side of his town. Sadly none of his friends came with him. Even worse the school bully, Glenn Torkells, did. If that's not bad enough, there's definitely something wrong with Robert's new school. Rats in the lockers, strange looking teachers, and even mysterious ooze?

    It's okay though, Robert is no wimp. While he might have a bully problem, I loved how quick he was to take on every other crazy thing that happened to him. This first book spans a mere three weeks in Robert's new school, and what a three weeks it is! When students start disappearing, it is Robert who takes up the role of leader and sets off to make things right. He's a hero in the making, and it's so hard not to fall in love with him.

    What really struck me though is how unapologetically Gilman mixes humor, grossness, and even a bit of horror into this book. I remember being a young reader, giggling while I read books from authors like Roald Dahl and Louis Sachar. Books that were a bit creepy, a bit crazy, and a whole lot of fun! That's what I was reliving as I powered through this book. I feel like the balance here is very well done. Best of all the ending sets things up perfectly for another book but, and here's the kicker, it actually wraps everything up too! Who knew you could have both? Thanks for that Mr. Gilman!

    As you can see from the copious use of exclamation marks, this is a book I found utterly enjoyable. I know without a doubt that this is going to be a series that flies off the shelves. If you have a reluctant reader, put this book in their hands! The story is great, it's a quick read, and it even has a "lenticular" cover that shifts from human to monster. If that alone isn't a good enough reason to purchase, I don't know what is. Buy a copy and get ready to enter Lovecraft Middle School.