Summary
For Spring Break, Stink’s friend, Sophie-of-the-Elves is going to Shakespeare camp at the college. They’ll learn about Shakespeare’s plays, practice Shakespearean insults, and even learn sword fighting. Stink can’t resist signing up for that! Even though he’s the only boy at camp, he’s determined to get the full Shakespeare experience.
The other downside to camp is Stink’s nemesis, Riley Rottenberger. She seems determined to have a Romeo-and-Juliet kissing moment with Stink before the end of camp. Thankfully, Judy and Sophie help him make an anti-smooching shield! Hopefully it will be enough against Riley.
Review
This is a fun addition to the Stink Moody series for kids transitioning to chapter books for the first time. When my son was in first and second grade, these were some of his favorite books.
The Shakespeare theme was fun. The book covers some of the basics of plays like Hamlet as well as information about how the theater worked in Shakespeare’s day. This could get kids interested in learning more about Shakespeare and his works.
I didn’t care for the kissing emphasis for this age group, but it worked out all right in the book. If kids are reading this with support, this might be a good way to introduce the idea of consent. I know it may seem like an over-reaction to a simple kids story, but no one should have to worry about someone kissing them when they don’t want to be kissed. I’ve worked at an elementary school; it does come up even with kids that young. In my opinion, it’s important to set a good standard for kids early on. I think our culture is bearing that out right now, too.
This is a fun series for younger elementary readers. Thanks to Netgalley and Candlewick Press for the chance to read an electronic review copy of the latest book in the series. The illustrations were not available on my review copy, but Peter H. Reynolds always does a fantastic job. His illustrations are a big part of the charm of the series.