Rating: 4 1/2 stars

Louis Sachar is an icon among children’s authors. The author of “Holes,” “There’s a Boy in the Girl’s Bathroom,” and many more much beloved titles now writes a slightly more serious story. This story will make children think about many serious issues including bullying, the environment, big business and friendship, to name just a few.

It’s a perfect book to evoke a rush of discussion about what happens in the plot. The story is downright gory at times (kids will love it!) although the outcome is a hopeful one. But this story will make its readers think about the dangers of what we are doing to our environment. It’s a doomsday warning about out-of-control science and how little our government could do if something really terrible were to happen.

The characters are all real; each one has his or her own issues and problems. The action is fast-paced and the story moves quickly — almost too quickly. The book seems to be finished before the reader is ready to say goodbye to the characters. Middle grade kids will really like this slightly more sophisticated offering by Sachar. Perfect for grades four through eight and a great addition to the classroom library. This would be a fantastic read aloud for the classroom.

Please note: This review is based on the final hardcover book provided by the publisher, Delacorte Books for Young Readers.