Mock Newbery Honor: Alvin Ho, Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary things by Lenore Look

The only reason why I read this book was because it was required for the Heavy Medal duo Nina and Sharon's Mock Newbery. I admit I began this book with some trepidation because:

1) as shown by the "scary sketches" drawn on the wasabi-green and denim blue cover, it's a boy book, usually not my thing
2) it was found in the Easy Reader section, again not my thing, as I prefer to read YA and older middle grade
3) it was a contemporary setting, so not my thing as I prefer science fiction/fantasy and historical fiction

The first page begins with a list of Alvin's fears ranging from elevators to substitute teachers to kimchi (a Korean dish even though Alvin is Chinese American) to wasabi (a Japanese seasoning even though Alvin is Chinese American) to school. While reading the second page, I started laughing as Alvin goes on to describe what he loves: explosions and super heroes (including the Green Lantern and Henry V). By the end of the first chapter, I am hooked.

Read the rest of my review at Shen's Blog.