Down in the Dumps, #1
Written and Illustrated by Wes Hargis
Down in the Dumps: The Mystery Box is the first in this cute chapter book series about friends made of trash who live in the dump. When a mysterious box with a brand new toy lands in the dump, the friends have to work together to return the toy to his home.
This book is silly, funny, and kind of gross; the type of story both boys and girls in the early reading stage would love. The writing switches back and forth between narration and conversation bubbles to tell the story, which I found to be a bit choppy, but young readers might enjoy the variety. I really liked the reading tracker at the end of each chapter that shows how far along the story the reader is and how many words they have read so far. It’s a fun way to keep kids engaged and help them finish the book! Would recommend for 2nd-4th grade readers.
Reviewed by Amaryah Cannon, Librarian, Millcreek Elementary
Review shared in December 2022
Rating: ★★★★✩ (4 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 2-4
Down in the Dumps, #1
The Mystery Box
Written and Illustrated by Wes Hargis
HarperCollins
96 pages
Release Date: 2022
ISBN: 9780062910127
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
