Dorko the Magnificent: A Novel (Dorko the Magnificent, 1) - Softcover

Beaty, Andrea

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1419710192 ISBN 13: 9781419710193

Publisher: Harry N. Abrams, 2014

Synopsis

  Robbie Darko is a magician. An old-school, pull-a-rabbit-out-of-your-hat-style magician. Robbie loves magic and he’s good at it―sort of. Despite his best efforts, passion, and practice, something always goes wrong with his tricks, landing Robbie in trouble. Enter crotchety Grandma Melvyn, who calls everyone “Trixie” and complains about everything. When Grandma Melvyn moves in and takes over his room, Robbie discovers that she was once an internationally renowned magician and learns about the heartache that turned her into a bitter woman. Against all odds, Robbie and Grandma Melvyn form an uneasy alliance to show the world―or at least the kids of Hobson Elementary School―that he is a true magician. Shortly after a successful talent show, Grandma Melvyn performs a final disappearing act, and Robbie learns a little about the true meaning of magic.
Written with pitch-perfect middle-grade humor and unforgettable characters, this gem of a novel will stay with readers long after Dorko the Magnificent has taken his final bow.

Praise for Dorko the Magnificent
"A young would-be magician gets lessons in both stagecraft and life from a crusty elder... the supporting characters steal the show."
―Kirkus Reviews

"Short chapters keep the story moving. Robbie has impressive determination, but it is Grandma Melvyn who is the star in this moving story."
―Booklist

"Satisfying and enjoyable, Dorko will engage reluctant and voracious readers alike."
―School Library Journal

" A thoroughly likable middle-grade novel, offering a blend of poignancy and giggle-worthy humor, this book is a solid back-to-school read."
―The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"Literature circles would work well with this title that deals with alienation, friendship, family, reconciliation, and death."
―Library Media Connection

About this title

About the Author

Andrea Beaty is the author of Secrets of the Cicada Summer, Attack of the Fluffy Bunnies, When Giants Come to Play, and Iggy Peck, Architect. She lives outside Chicago with her family. Andrea often visits schools to share her love of writing with students. Learn more about her programs and her books at andreabeaty.com and threesillychicks.com.

From School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-Fifth grade has been tough for Robbie Darko, an aspiring illusionist who can't perform even the simplest trick without accidentally setting things on fire. His dad constantly travels for work, his mom tries to help make ends meet with a demanding new job, his teachers are fed up with his havoc-wreaking magic tricks, and his little brother is a huge pain. To make matters worse, Robbie is asked to give up his bedroom to eccentric and unrelentingly cantankerous Grandma Melvyn (actually, his great-great-aunt). Robbie eventually learns that Grandma Melvyn was once a celebrated magician. With the help of his affable friend Cat, he slowly earns Grandma's approval and, ultimately, her trust and affection. She not only coaches Robbie in showmanship and sleight of hand, but she also guides him down the path to self-confidence and self-discipline. Robbie's maturation is ultimately tested when Grandma Melvyn makes a final trip to the hospital. Beaty develops well-rounded main and supporting characters with genuine flaws and emotions, skillfully building their relationships. Though the protagonist's flashback narration occasionally meanders, it has an authentic middle-grade voice that will have readers laughing out loud. The moments where Robbie takes responsibility for his mistakes and shows vulnerability will serve as positive examples for young audiences. Satisfying and enjoyable, Dorko will engage reluctant and voracious readers alike.-Elly Schook, Jamieson Elementary School, Chicagoα(c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

About this edition

• Publisher: Harry N. Abrams
• Publication date: 2014
• ISBN 10: 1419710192
• ISBN 13: 9781419710193
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 240