Alvin Ho: Allergic to Camping, Hiking and Other Natural Disasters by Lenore Look
Schwartz and Wade, 2009
Ages 6-10
Cautions: None

Kiwi Magazine Review:
Alvin Ho is afraid of everything. If there’s something that can be categorized with a phobia, he knows about it and has it. So naturally, camping is the last thing he and his runaway imagination want to do-even when the father he idolizes suggests it. Though recommended for ages six to 10, Alvin Ho is a story families would enjoy all together.

The story is told through the eyes of the protagonist, Alvin Ho, who sees the world as a very, very big place to hide from. He often fantasizes about being a superhero, one who is not afraid of anything. The middle of three children, he is awed by what he perceives to be intelligence on the part of his older brother, Calvin and surprises himself when he finds his little sister Anibelly to be “useful.” The story explores the world of children as they see it, not understanding how things work or why they are, but making up their own answers.

Alvin will encourage children to conquer their fears, whether they are superheroes or not. The book’s quick wit and comedy will entertain adults as well as children, and the illustrations bring the story even more to life. Every character is unique and original, an easy read that entertains the entire time.

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From the publisher:
Alvin Ho is back, and this time he’s facing his biggest fear: The Great Outdoors.

Alvin Ho is back and his worst fear has come true: he has to go camping. What will he do exposed in the wilderness with bears and darkness and . . . pit toilets? Luckily, he’s got his night-vision goggles and water purifying tablets and super-duper heavy-duty flashlight to keep him safe. And he’s got his dad, too.

Lenore Look’s touching, drop-dead-funny chapter book about an Asian-American second grader-with illustrations by New York Times bestselling illustrator LeUyen Pham-is perfect for beginning and reluctant readers alike, and has tons of boy appeal.

Thank you to Laura, a sophomore at Pennsylvania State University, for this book review.

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