Written in the style of ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ this book is sure to be a big hit. If children have liked that, and 13 Storey Tree House Style books, this a great recommendation. It’s accessible through its written style (comic pictures etc.); it has easy to read short chapters; it’s genuinely funny: think poo and fart jokes; has a good story with accessible characters – think of the success of super hero films; and it teaches children a great lesson about friendship and how to understand those around you (Loki doesn’t really understand human feelings until late in the book, but his description of them are great, even if he can’t name them). Perfect for children aged 8 upwards. What’s the gist? Loki has been, surprise, surprise, rather a naughty boy, shall we say, in Asgard (home of the gods). A bit harsh really considering that that is his job – god of mischief. And, therefore, his punishment is to be sent to Earth as a small weak boy to try and survive school and human life. If he can prove that he is worthy of staying in Asgard (by being nice), he can come back, otherwise he will be forsaken for a lifetime (forever, if you are an immortal god) of snakes and snakebites (not the drink). Thor has come along as his brother and a couple of other gods as his ‘mum’ and ‘dad’. Each day he writes in a diary (the diary has its own voice and does not allow him to lie) to show what he has been up to and a point system enables him to find out how he is scoring.
Jamie Marshall
Walker Books ISBN 9781406399752 £7.99
