Stories of the Wild West Gang

Gr 4-8–Ten transitional-length chapter books in one weighty volume recount the adventures of the wacky West family as told from the point of view of cousin Michael. An only child with seriously overprotective parents, he is thrilled when his aunt, uncle, five boisterous cousins, and pets of all shapes and sizes move close by. His own household is quiet, refined, and more than a little restrictive. Much to his parents’ dismay, he attempts to visit the West gang as often as possible. They welcome him with open arms into their loud and loving, messy and slightly wild lives. Young readers (and boys in particular) will enjoy their repeated exploits involving everything from potty humor and worm farms to barfing carloads of kids and creepy campfire tales. Set in New Zealand, but loaded with universal appeal, these zany tales will please fans of goofy family stories. Pye’s lively black-and-white pencil illustrations enliven the first page of each new adventure.–Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library