Professor Gargoyle is an incomparable middle grade read - and fortunately the beginning of what is sure to be an invaluable and exemplary series. Personally, I think it's a great idea to introduce younger readers to all sorts of books - and a middle grade take on Lovecraftian horror serves up plenty of fun with some shocking and creepy twist. Reasons to Read: 1. Fun horror - but not conventional horror: I appreciate Lovecraft-inspired stories because it's exactly the kind of horror I really enjoy. This isn't what most of us are used to, and for anyone concerned about nightmares or gore, you don't need to be when it comes to Professor Gargoyle. It's shocking at times and a bit twisted and it's just enough to give you some creepy tingling in your spine but nothing that's over the top or gratuitous. Honestly, some of the creepier parts of the story are positively BRILLIANT. 2. Appropriate illustrations for the story: A good illustration is not only pleasing to the eye but it actually enhances the reading experience as well. Eugene Smith is remarkable with illustrations that combine the needs of both a middle grade book and one that has some scarier aspects to the plot. The lenticular cover is also a great way to really get a feel for the book and I think it adds to the overall experience. 3. One of the most creative and thrilling middle grade books I've read: The story is fast-paced, and totally bursting with creativity. I enjoyed the few nods to typical Lovecraftian adventures and creatures. But placing these in a younger setting is going to hold a lot of appeal with younger readers looking for something more uncommon, and for older readers both those who are familiar with horror a la Lovecraft and those who are completely new to it and would just like a taste. I adored the haunted school as a setting, and Karina is one character that I found particularly intriguing. I wish there had been a bit more depth to the story overall though. I think a bit more could have been added to the plot to give it more meaning and significance, although this may be addressed later on in later books from the series as overarching themes and ideas are addressed. It really is something that is great for readers looking for something besides the standard paranormal or contemporary books out there. Review copy received from Quirk Books/Random House Canada for review; no other compensation was received.

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's I 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)