Book reviewed by Chris J Kenworthy, for Armadillo magazine.
‘Tremendous Things’ is a story about Wilbur, and starts with his first day at his new school. For British readers, some of the terminology might be confusing at first, as he’s starting middle school in the US ninth grade – equivalent to the UK school Year 10 – but the novel soon gives way to its heartwarming plot.
Wilbur’s first day couldn’t be more embarrassing, though, as a letter is leaked which reveals all of his private feelings to the entire student body. Despite the onslaught of humiliation, his best friend Alex sticks by his side, even though much of Alex’s spare time is taken up now that he’s dating.
Along the way, Wilbur befriends his elderly neighbour Sal, and provides the reader with a lesson in friendship itself, and the many different forms those friends can take in real life.
Wilbur plays triangle in the school band, and during a school exchange programme in Paris, he meets Charlie – the girl of his dreams, who plays the ukulele and who steals his heart.
‘Tremendous Things’ is a funny, light-hearted teen love story about a dorky kid and his crush on Charlie, and is a moralistic story for teenagers. The characters’ flaws make them seem believable, as though they are real people – and this serves to create the perfect verisimilitude for the story.
‘Tremendous Things’ is a quirky story packed full of heartwarming moments that will keep its readers hooked to the book. In this way, the novel is a tremendous triumph for author Susin Nielsen.
Stowmarket Reporter 