Book Review: Charlie Bumpers vs. The Perfect Little Turkey

Book: Charlie Bumpers vs. The Perfect Little Turkey by Bill Harley with illustrations by Adam Gustavson

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication Date: Available now

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

In this very funny story, Charlie Bumpers learned a thing or two about the importance of family during Thanksgiving break.

Sometimes family can be a pain which Charlie knows first hand from his older brother Matt and younger sister Mabel constantly teasing him. But that's nothing compared to his little cousin Chip. Chip will be visiting for Thanksgiving but causes many problems for Charlie by following him around, pestering him and getting him in trouble for things he didn't do. For some reason, none of the adults see how awful Chip is they think he's a perfect little angel so it's safe to assume that Charlie is not looking forward to Chip's visit.

Thanksgiving will be a busy one for Charlie and his family because there will be 10 additional guests which includes family: Grandma and Grandpa (Charlie's mother's parents), Aunt Sarah (his mom's sister) her husband Brandon and their children Chip and Tilly and last is Uncle Ron (his dad's brother). Also attending will be their grumpy neighbors the Gritzbachs and nice Mrs. Walcott (one of his mom's patients).

During the break Charlie has to work on an assignment his 4th grade teacher Mrs. Burke assigned about family. But if his family is driving him crazy how can he truly see the importance of them.

I like this story, it has a National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation feel to it especially with so many things happening or going wrong in this story. What I really like about this story is that Charlie learned that family can surprise you and before you realize it, you come to appreciate them even if you still think they're a total pain.

This is the second Charlie Bumpers book that I've read and I think the author does a good job of conveying Charlie's feelings and experiences. This is a very well written book and I love the illustrations that are seen throughout. I'm sure readers of all ages will be able to relate to Charlie and his family's hectic holiday.