Kathryn Erskine (Children's Literature)
Over-programmed middle schooler, Adam Canfield, runs constantly and still runs late for all his activities. But he could not refuse his friend and love interest when she talked him into co-editorship of the school newspaper with her. With the help of a smart, assertive third-grader, they stumble upon the story of the century that involves everyone from the friendly janitor to the devious principal. They also break open a community story and Winerip reveals that even zoning issues can be hysterical and exciting when handled with his talent and wit. The snappy pace and great humor result in an appealing read for all ages. The characters are beautifully crafted, making them instantly likable or villainous or comic. The author captures a realistic middle school perspective on friendships with adults and peers. The searing eyes of the middle schooler will not respect adults who don’t deserve it, but their enduring fairness will loyally support those who teach and treat them with dignity. This first novel for young people from a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist is an absolute laugh-riot, with plenty of serious things to say about people and American society. Even at over 300 pages, the story flies past, a definite must read. 2005, Candlewick Press, $15.99. Ages 9 to 12.

CCBC (Cooperative Children’s Book Center Choices, 2006)
Adam Canfield is one overscheduled middle schooler. As a result, he is constantly on the move, usually arriving late to his myriad extracurricular activities. These include working as a journalist for the school newspaper, The Slash. The action of this novel is as fast-paced as Adam’s life as he and his co-editor, Jennifer, work at uncovering stories that reveal the true nature of some of the people in power. There is their principal, who seems to be misappropriating funds at the same time she puts more and more pressure on teachers and students for better test results, and certain members of the city government, who are promoting unfair zoning laws. Because Adam takes his job and himself very seriously, he is irritated when Phoebe, a younger student, begins getting a lot of attention for her reporting. Sometimes it all feels like too much. This over-the-top novel is extremely funny and suspenseful, but at its core are some provocative questions as it explores the misuse of power, ethics in journalism, and the role of standardized testing in American education. CCBC Category: Fiction for Children. 2005, Candlewick Press, 326 pages, $15.99. Ages 9-12.

Kirkus (Kirkus Reviews, April 1, 2005 (Vol. 73, No. 7))
Intrepid elementary/middle-school newspaper reporters uncover scandals in this quick-moving, suspenseful and well-written comedy by an intrepid Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times columnist. Overachiever Adam Canfield regrets agreeing to be co-editor of the school paper, but he has a crush on Jennifer, his fellow editor and he's committed to hard-hitting, courageous journalism. When a third-grade girl reporter shows as much spunk as him, he resents her, but follows up a story she's uncovered. He and Jennifer learn that their evil school principal is misusing school funds. Along the way, the kids deal with journalistic ethics and rely on solid reporting methods that may inspire some young readers toward journalism. Winerip's humor relies on campy, stereotyped villains and seems long at over 300 pages, but that's fine. The comedy scores and the writing zips along with real suspense, making this a fun, fast read. It's an excellent effort for Winerip's debut that should delight middle-school readers. 2005, Candlewick, 336p, $15.99. Category: Fiction. Ages 8 to 12. © 2005 Kirkus Reviews/VNU eMedia, Inc. All rights reserved.

Sarah Applegate (Library Media Connection, November/December 2005)
Adam is a busy young man. Not only is he one of the new co-editors of The Slash, the student newspaper for his middle school/elementary school, but also he is in Quiz Bowl, Math Olympiad, swimming, band, advanced classes, and the "Just Say No to Drugs Community Players." When custodian Eddie reveals that a gift to the school intended to help students gets used to remodel the principal's office, Adam and his co-editor find themselves embroiled in a complicated web of small town politics. For the right readers, it will be a great read. Unfortunately, finding the fit might be the toughest part. Additional Selection. 2005, Candlewick Press, 336pp., $15.99 hc. Ages 11 up.

Monica Irwin (The Lorgnette - Heart of Texas Reviews (Vol. 18, No. 3))
Adam Canfield has always been known for his cutting-edge writing in the school paper, The Slash. Now, he is a co-editor and must take more responsibility for the paper. It is called The Slash because the name of the school is the Harris Elementary/Middle School--Harris Elementary “slash” Middle School. It is while working on an article about the school janitor that a younger reporter named Phoebe stumbles on a secret. Adam and his co-editor, Jennifer, then decide to investigate, and they discover a school scandal and a financial cover-up in the administration. The principal, Mrs. Marris, is all about control and making sure that none of the illegal things she has done is discovered. Eventually, all of the staff of The Slash is recognized for what they achieved in sniffing out the problem plaguing their school. This book will appeal to future journalists and to mystery lovers. Adam is a thoroughly believable character because he is egotistical and underestimates the younger members of his staff. But he eventually comes around, becomes deeply committed to discovering the truth, and will do anything he can to see that the problems are exposed. He also begins to believe in young Phoebe and sees what potential she has. Fiction, Highly Recommended. Grades 6 and up. 2005, Candlewick, 326p., $15.99. Ages 11 to 16.