Meh ( )

The version I am actually reviewing is the Audible Originals one. It is not listed in the editions available. I chose the version I hope matches.

I chose this title as part of the Audible Original program. I debated getting it as I’m not a child. Okay, some who know me might argue that so, I’m way above the age of being considered a child. I was kept entertained the entire time. I can’t wait to share this with my grandchildren. I know they are going to love it! The actors did a great job bringing this book to life. This would be a wonderful title for a road trip.

The grandchildren mentioned are in range from 6 to 12. I think the two older ones are more suited for the book but, being the audiobook version, I believe even the youngest will be kept entertained. The Audible Originals version runs just over 4 hours and has a big cast. I think even the adults in the car will be entertained. It will also provide an opening for talking about bullying. Oh and there are dogs. What child hasn’t asked for a dog at least once? ( )

I know this is middle grade at best but the reoccurring abuses of police power as a mechanism for the plot rubbed me the wrong way. I don't think there's any reason to normalize it in cutesy kid fiction.

I tried, really, to dismiss it and enjoy the rest of the story and perhaps if there was just one instance of it that might have worked. Instead it riddled the whole thing.

I'm the end I had to stop. This audio drama is only 4 hours but I couldn't last.

From what I did hear the acting was pretty decent, if cartoonish. That seems to match the feel of the story though. No complaints with the production. ( )

This was a fun read that I can see appealing to kids in the intended audience. The characters were appealing, the humor usually hit the spot, and the adventure filled the entire story. I did reduce the rating half a star because they took on some pretty dangerous stuff when there were loving adults around them that really could have helped them out. Overall, I think that kids in the middle school range would enjoy reading about hijinks of Riley and his friends and how they can outsmart the grownups around them - especially the bad guys. ( )

entertaining in the full cast dramatization. otherwise not my cup of tea. ( )