NORMAN & THE STINKING SPACE GOO by Michael Wilhelm
Fiction, Kids, Science Fiction, Super Heroes
4****
BLURB: Norman Flinch is a pretty average kid, until he is splattered all over by an alien space orb. The unsettling gunk leaves him with a rancid aroma that keeps everyone around him gagging. He turns to Wendell Higgins, the school science geek for help. Together they unlock the awe-inspiring secret of the Stinking Space Goo.
THOUGHTS: Norman is a clumsy 14-year-old who is obsessed with comic books, much to his mother’s dismay. Forced to do his chores instead of diving into his latest purchase, Norman is mowing the grass when he runs into a glass ball left behind by alien visitors. The ball explodes and he (and the yard) is covered in slime – and the fun begins. Although he washes the goo off – multiple times, it stinks! A lot! And nothing can get rid of it. He goes to see a kid he knows – a genius scientist on his bus. The two of them figure out that he now has superpowers in that he can control the stink…and he heals almost instantly. He has become what he loves. But just because you wear a cape and a mask doesn’t mean you’re automatically coordinated.
This is a fun read, especially for kids who love “stinky” books. Norman is completely inept as a superhero – but he comes through for his sister and his family reluctantly accepts him. This is the first book in a series.
Recommended.
Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
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