by Natalie Lloyd
Harper Collins, 2018. Intermediate Fiction. 285 p.
Seven children with the last name of Problim, live in a swamp on their own while their parents are on an archaeological expedition. When the kids' bungalow gets destroyed, they go into town hoping to live in their deceased grandfather's house until their parents arrive. Their next-door neighbors in town are the O'Pinion family, and evil Desdemona O'Pinion is convinced there is a treasure hidden in the Problim mansion. Even though Desdemona tries to turn the city against them, the other neighbors are intrigued by the strange children, who are totally unconventional in an mysterious and exciting way.
Although adults will recognize that this is a satire exploring the forces of convention (the O'Pinions) on those that are different (the Problims), kids will just see it as a fun and high spirited romp. Each of the children has an odd super power and unique quirky personality. Flatulence jokes and potty type humor abound. This story will appeal to either boy or girl. The story doesn't completely resolve, so if you start this one do so knowing you will have to commit to waiting for the sequel.
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