From School Library Journal
Grade 3-5-The Slam Dunker company is sponsoring a contest-the kid who produces the stinkiest sneakers will win three pairs of prized Slam Dunkers. The footwear must be made smelly by natural means, and Colin, coached by his friend Webster, knows them all-no socks, jogging, sleeping with the sneakers on, no washing of feet, etc. Colin has his mind on other things, too, like Poppy Roginski, the prettiest girl in his class. Missing sneakers, false accusations, and good intentions gone awry all play a part in the story; in the end, it is Poppy who wins the contest, along with Colin's heart. As its title suggests, this book is nasty and stinky-and because of that-children will love it. Bunting's dialogue is on target, and although the story is light, it has some twists that will keep readers hooked.
Dot Minzer, North Barrington School, Barrington, ILCopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Gr. 4-6. Bunting's latest story banks on the idea that middle-graders will love the thought of disgustingly grungy sneakers--and they probably will. Colin thinks he has a good chance to win a prize for his smelly shoes, which are so foul that his mom won't even let them in the house. Even Bruno, the bulldog belonging to Mr. Sabaton upstairs, is awed. When the sneakers inexplicably vanish, Colin, convinced it's rival Jack Dunn's doing, decides to retaliate by stealing Jack's reeking shoes. Imagine Colin's surprise when he discovers he's wrong, and that Jack's shoes have now disappeared. Nice kid Colin's sense of right and wrong eventually takes over, something Bunting accomplishes without heavy moralizing, and rightly, neither boy (Jack cheats) wins. This is good fun that begs a sequel, especially one that gives bulldog Bruno (deliciously pictured on the jacket) more of a part.
Stephanie Zvirin
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
