This collection of short stories centers around the unusual happenings in Willakaville. On the surface it appears to be a normal town, but read a few of the stories and you will find it to be a rather bizarre place. The titles inside only hint at the humor and weirdness set to unleash: The Mushroom Virus, Amayonaising, Robot Insects, War of the Weird, and Agent Jellyfish to name a few.
Author Mathew Heinecke (AKA BALD GUY) has written a series perfect to read aloud in the classroom or for those minutes before lights out. Reluctant readers would especially enjoy the books. They’re the kids who judge a book by its weight and anything too daunting will result in a sigh and an eye roll. These short stories should have them smiling and wanting to read more.
The greatest feature is what you’ll find inside each tale. There are lessons to be learned about life and growing up. Bald Guy said it succinctly in a recent Willakaville Blog Post:
Having kids of my own, I have always tried to teach them as much as I can. I want them to take advantage of all the life lessons I have learned over the past 40 years. But there is only so much time in a day and time in a childhood. Since children spend a majority of their time in school, I think it would be great if they would also teach some of these life lessons too. That is one thing I try to do with my Willakaville books. Hopefully, some kids can get those lessons in a fun way.
Math, reading, and history are all important. However, imagine if we taught kids how to deal better with their emotions. Now imagine how much better the world would be when they grow up. People will work better together, solve problems, and help each other more. This ultimately benefits society by reducing conflict, crime and inefficiencies. I would happily pay more taxes to keep my kids in school longer for this purpose.
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Hard to argue with that line of thought. If you like entertaining stories and some quick reading give
WILLAKAVILLE a try.
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About Greg Pattridge
Climbing another mountain...writing middle grade novels.
He’s got a handle on how to entice kids into opening a book.
Thanks for sharing. I hadn’t heard of these. Sounds quite fun.
What great short stories. First I’ve heard of them. Great way to win over a new reader.
Agree with Clee – kids will really tear into this story – with gusto!