MMGM: Alvin Ho: Allergic to the Great Wall, the Forbidden Palace, and Other Tourist Attractions

This book is a little different from what I normally feature. It’s for the younger range of middle grade and the protagonist is 7 ½. But the title was so hilarious, I knew I had to read it. Alvin Ho is an endearing character—and China is excellent foil for someone who’s fearful. And although my sons are no longer at the chapter book age, I’m always excited to find interesting books in this category, because I remember how hard it was to find appealing books at that stage.

Here’s the synopsis (from Amazon):

Here’s the sixth book in the beloved and hilarious Alvin Ho chapter book series, which has been compared to Diary of a Wimpy Kid and is perfect for both beginning and reluctant readers.

Alvin, an Asian American second grader who’s afraid of everything, is taking his fears to a whole new level—or should we say, continent. On a trip to introduce brand-new baby Ho to relatives in China, Alvin’s anxiety is at fever pitch. First there’s the harrowing 16-hour plane ride; then there’s a whole slew of cultural differences to contend with: eating lunch food for breakfast, kung fu lessons, and acupuncture treatment (yikes!). Not to mention the crowds that make it easy for a small boy to get lost.

From Lenore Look and New York Times bestselling illustrator LeUyen Pham comes a drop-dead-funny and touching series with a truly unforgettable character.

What I loved about Alvin Ho:

         1.  A relatable main character: I loved that Alvin is so scared of everything. It adds a lot of humor, but I also think a lot of kids can relate or at least it will make them feel like they are not so fearful next to Alvin. 

      2. A book for reluctant/early readers that features a boy main character. As a mom of boys, I have been very frustrated at the dearth of reading material for the chapter book range that appealed to my boys.  It’s also refreshing to read a book for this age group that features a diverse cast of characters.

      3.  A dad who spouts Shakespeare curses and is a calm contrast to Alvin’s fears. I loved Alvin’s dad so much, especially how he handled the central conflict in this story. When you’re afraid of everything, you need a sympathetic parent who can go with the flow.

          4. An interesting setting: I probably wouldn’t have been so keen to pick this book up if it hadn’t been set in China. It was fun seeing the Great Wall and the Forbidden City from Alvin’s perspective—even though both trips got caught short by his antics.

   

      5. Humor: I loved the running joke of how Alvin called his baby sister different fish names and the various adventures with his PDK (Personal Disaster Kit). I think I need one of those!

      

This book reminded me a lot of BOBBY VS GIRLS (ACCIDENTALLY) by Lisa Yee, albeit with a younger protagonist. I think it would appeal to kids who like humorous reads and travel. This is the sixth book in series. The others include: ALLERGIC TO GIRLS, ALLERGIC TO CAMPING, ALLERGIC TO BIRTHDAY PARTIES, ALLERGIC TO DEAD BODIES, and ALLERGIC TO BABIES. Don’t they sound fun?

Have you read any good chapter books for the younger MG reader?

If you're looking for Marvelous Middle Grade suggestions, check out Shannon Messenger's blog.