Wedgie & Gizmo

Reviewed by: Jill O'Connor - Harriet Beecher Stowe Elementary School, Brunswick, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: March 13, 2018

Review

In alternating chapters Gizmo the evil guinea pig (or cavy as he prefers to be called as he is neither a pig nor from Guinea) and Wedgie the lovable corgi (he just wants you to love him) tell the story of a new family navigating the bumps that come when trying to blend into one. Dad, Elliot, Abuela, and Gizmo have moved into the house with Mom, Jasmine, Jackson, and Wedgie, and misunderstanding and hilarity ensue. Gizmo has been temporarily displaced in Jasmine's Barbie Dream House while his new Eco-Habitat is on order and he laments the loss of his Evil Lair. He has big plans to make everyone obey his commands, but first he has to scope out his new surroundings and determine who wants to eat him. Great for readers ready to move on from leveled readers. The black and white illustrations are cute and work well with the story. A fun read-aloud since both Gizmo and Wedgie have such distinctive voices. The book can also be used to discuss perspective and theme (family, friendship, pet care). The first in a series that will be much sought after.

Overall Book Score: excellent