Boa Constructor

August 1, 2019

Gr 1-3-The second book in the "Binder of Doom" series features the mystery and monsters readers loved in the first installment. Alexander and his best friends Rip and Nikki are working together to solve a new problem in their hometown of Stermont. Machine parts from all over the city have gone missing, and it is up to them to find out who is doing this and why. Just when the kids think they have solved the case, a curveball comes their way and they must work together to defeat the Boa Constructor and his evil plan. Early chapter book readers will be drawn in by the art and themes reminiscent of Cummings's popular "Notebook of Doom" series. The short chapters and engaging illustrations will hold the attention of those new to chapter books, while the dynamic format will support young readers as they transition from picture books. For example, onomatopoeic terms ("KICK-KICK-BAM!") are written in bold, capitalized text perfect for reading aloud. With the introduction of new monsters and monster cards throughout the story, readers are kept guessing as the story unfolds. VERDICT This mysteriously monster-filled binder of fun is a must-purchase for the early chapter book section of elementary libraries.-Elizabeth Pelayo, St. Charles East High School, IL

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2019
In the second installment of the Binder of Doom series, readers will reconnect with Alexander Bopp, who leads the Super Secret Monster Patrol, a group of mutant children who protect the citizens of their beloved town of Stermont. His friends Nikki and Rip rejoin him to add new monsters and adventures to their ever growing binder of monsters. As in series opener Brute-Cake (2019), Alexander and his friends attend the local library's summer program, this time for "maker-camp." They are assigned a Maker Challenge, in which each camper is to "make a machine that performs a helpful task"; meanwhile, mechanical equipment is being stolen all over Stermont. Unfortunately, the pacing and focus of the book hop all over the place. The titular boa constructor (a two-headed maker-minded snake and the culprit behind the thefts) is but one of many monsters introduced here, appearing more than two-thirds of the way through the story--just after the Machine Share-Time concludes the maker-camp plotline. (Rip's "most dangerous" invention does come in handy at the climax.) The grayscale illustrations add visuals that will keep early readers engaged despite the erratic storyline; they depict Alexander with dark skin and puffy hair and Nikki and Rip with light skin. Monster trading cards are interleaved with the story. Returning fans will be happy to see their friends, but this outing's unlikely to win them new ones. (Paranormal adventure. 6-8)

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