For my first book review I have chosen How to Eat Fried Worms by Thomas Rockwell
5 out of 5 stars
Of all of the excellent books for boys out there, I chose How To Eat Fried Worms as the first to recommend for two reasons. First, because it is the first book as a child that I remember made girls cringe and boys laugh. Second, because both of my boys loved it and consider it an American classic.
When Billy boasts to his three friends, Alan, Tom and Joe, that he could eat just about anything, Alan challenges him to a bet for fifty dollars that he couldn't eat fifteen worms in fifteen days. After agreeing to the terms that Billy can eat the worms with any condiment he chooses and may cook them as well, the deal is sealed with a handshake. At first, Billy gets sick just thinking of eating the first worm, but gets it down. As the contest continues, the worms become easier to eat for Billy, much to the consternation of Alan and Joe.
Billy's two friends, Alan and Joe become increasingly desperate to win their war first resorting psychological warfare, then out right cheating and even stooping so low as to use Billy's own parents against him. When none of their schemes work, Alan and Joe come up with a plan that nearly finishes Billy for good.
The title and worm eating may turn some heads, don't let it turn yours. The tale is funny and the book is well written. There are a few words that are written to express children's slang that may throw off the reader, but can be overcome by reading out loud. I highly recommend this book for fun and humor. So often, books are chosen on moral or literary value which can cause boys to get bored of books. This engrossing or gross book will amuse the reader the entire way through.
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