Wink (Dial Books for Young Readers, 2020) by Rob Harrell is a serious yet funny read enhanced by comic panels of Batpig and other drawings. It’s hard to put down this touching book.
Look at the first line, “I’m lying on a steel table, all too aware of the giant ray gun pointed in my direction.” How could you not read on?
Seventh grader Ross Maloy just wants to fit in but his diagnosis of a rare eye cancer makes him standout. He feels like if he gives this thing as little energy as he can, it’ll just fade away. Best friend Abby reminds him he has the “Ultimate Excuse” for not having homework done. But things “go from bad to catastrophic.” Not only does he have a permanent winking eye, but now he has to wear a wide-brimmed hat everywhere–including inside–to keep the sun off his face. And now someone is sharing supposedly funny Instagram drawings of him via text to his classmates.
I love how unexpected people become Ross’ friends and how he finds a new interest. I wish the story had been written more chronologically as I sometimes got confused. But still a good read.
The story is based on Rob’s own experiences. Read about the author/illustrator here and check out his other books here. His newest book, Popcorn, comes out in September.
Love this book and I recommended it to my eye doctor! Great to understand the anxiety children who have diseases share. Wink is a mentor text for me. Thank you for your review on MMGM!
Beth Schmelzer
Great idea to recommend to your eye doctor.
Thanks for sharing.
You’re welcome.
This looks like great fun, and also helpful for anyone of any age going through health stuff that changes their appearance.
My first day at MMGM so very pleased to read your post.
Definitely. Glad you enjoyed it.
This book is one of my favorites. It’s a great read-aloud and my copy has been passed around to at least a dozen other readers. Thanks for featuring it today on MMGM.
I bet it’s a great read-aloud.
Hey Sue-
This sounds like an interesting book with a different angle. Thanks for sharing it on MMGM>
Enjoy!
I have had this book on my TBR since I heard the author give a talk. The book sounds amazing and I am glad to see you enjoyed it so much. Thanks for sharing.
Those TBR piles can be overwhelming.
I loved this book. It has so many unexpected things going on, and it is so well written. Thanks for the reminder.
Oh, wow! This is another one that I hadn’t heard about. I’m adding it to my reading list. Thanks for sharing your review!
Super opening line all right! 🙂 Poor Ross! Really tough for any child… This sounds a great story, and a great mix of humour and serious topics. Thanks for the recommendation!
Opening lines have become their own art. Good one here, 😉