Alistair Grim’s Odditorium by Gregory Funaro (review)

Abstract

Reviewed by: Alistair Grim’s Odditorium by Gregory Funaro April Spisak Funaro, Gregory Alistair Grim’s Odditorium; illus. by Vivienne To. Disney Hyperion, 2015 419p ISBN 978-1-4847-0006-8 $16.99 R Gr. 4-6 This sharp, widely accessible novel tosses a bit of the supernatural, a hint of steampunk, some Victorian-era references, and an instantly memorable protagonist, Grubb, into a pot and delivers a quirky, promising beginning to a new series. Grubb is truly relieved to have been rescued by Alistair Grim, the creator of the Odditorium, a magical location that promises adventure, as his situation as oppressed workhorse for the cruel Mr. Smears was rough and likely to get worse. Things certainly seem safer with Grim, though not for long after Grubb divulges a key secret about Grim’s magic, and the bad guys come flocking to them. Grubb has the narratively necessary qualities of being fundamentally unable to mind his own business or obey orders, and readers will soak up the cool, secret information he gleans because of these traits. Of course, since Grub was left as a baby on a doorstep and intentionally kept small by being starved so that he can be a better chimney sweep, it’s understandable that he’s lacking many social graces, and the result is atmospheric and suspenseful. A glossary, cast of characters, and occasional black and white illustrations that highlight significant moments help make this complex book accessible. Copyright © 2015 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois