The Problim Children

Gr 3–6—Lloyd (A Snicker of Magic and Key to Extraordinary) pens a new series. The Problims are a perfect seven: one child for each day of the week. From the infantile Toot (his lack of vocabulary does not prevent him from communicating in the most amusing and odiferous manner) to the nearly grown Sundae, the Problims have found themselves in need of new lodging. Chasing a riddle from their peculiar grandfather, the Problims reclaim his home in town, though the neighbors aren't particularly thrilled to see the Problims return. With rumors of treasure, exceptionally nosy neighbors, and the twins Thea and Wendell's birthdays to plan, the siblings have their work cut out for them. This first installment introduces the family while focusing deeply on the twins' relationship and their individual identities. Lloyd's warm and playful writing shines here. While the large, quirky family story feels familiar, the Problims' problems are their own. Readers will enjoy unravelling this first bit of familial mystery with them. When the tale is done, readers may feel gently let down, as not much is resolved in this first outing. However, future Problim adventures will likely be requested and devoured.