Book Review: Jacky Ha-Ha My Life is Joke by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein
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| Cover Courtesy of Goodreads |
Goodreads Synopsis: Jacky Hart has found a hidden talent in the performing arts, and she's a triple threat onstage! She wants nothing more than to act and sing all summer – but her parents have other plans for her. Jacky reluctantly signs up for a summer job in her resort town of Seaside Heights, New Jersey, where tourists come to enjoy the beach and fun carnival atmosphere. Now she has serious responsibilities like her job and babysitting her younger sisters, but Jacky longs to perform in the summer stock performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream. Can she handle all of her important commitments and still have fun with her friends – or will she learn that juggling isn't one of her many talents?
My Review: Middle grade is one of those genres I always come back to, and it's because of books like these. The authors have created another cute, fun story about Jacky's adventures. I love Jacky's character growth from the first book-she's less nervous about performing, but whenever she is nervous, she tries her best. The best part is that Jacky is a very flawed character, but she keeps learning from each mistake. She also believes in herself, and looks for a job that uses her acting skills.
Her friends are also great characters, and I'm happy there wasn't much friendship drama between them.
Plot-wise, I like how the authors kept the story realistic and didn't give Jacky roles for the play until she earned them. The story covered many points like Jacky's summer job, her play, and family relationships, and also moved at a great Goldilocks pace (ie not too fast, not too slow). The setting was also very fun; who wouldn't want to read about living on a boardwalk?
Overall, the authors have returned with an interesting story with a flawed, yet sweet-hearted, protagonist. I give it 4 stars, and I hope there'll be more books in the series!
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