"a jolly romp"
"Grobar and the Mind Control Potion, to be released later this summer, has already caught the attention of children and parents alike."
"...I thought she was slightly crazy at first, with her book about 'secret penguin spy agency that is fighting against a goat who is trying to take over the world', but now I've read it myself, I think I'll join the ranks of crazy people ranting about secret penguin spy agencies and evil goats."
"This is a must read book! Definitely one of my favorites!"
"hide it from Dad"
"Grobar and the Mind Control Potion is an enthralling book, with many strange and unexpected twists that will keep you guessing to the end. Technically listed as a kids' book, this is a delightful read for all ages!"
"Grobar was so very entertaining and humorous. It reminded me of the type of British humor I like so much. The best ten bucks I've spent for a book in a long time."
"Your book is delightful. I smiled and laughed and chuckled and smiled some more. Very creative. Very appealing. Quite wonderful. Congratulations."
"A menagerie of unexpected characters take on a not-your-typical evil genius in possession of a strange recipe and a diabolical plan. With the flip coolness of Eoin Colfer, Cox has created a new set of fictional heroes for younger readers. The plot is quick-moving, as the characters race world-wide to foil the villains using technology that would nicely suit James Bond, except that he is far too obvious a spy for this group. Wrapped up in the adventure is a very real and likeable boy, grappling with missing elements in his family as he finds himself involved in global intrigue. The story is told from several characters' points of view, enticing the reader into their world. Entertaining and imaginative, Grobar and the Mind Control Potion is an exciting new entry in children's adventure writing. As a children's librarian, I recommend Grobar as a very satisfying read for the 7-11-year old crowd. The first chapter, especially the final paragraph, will have them hooked!"
"I really really like Grobar and the mind Control Potion. It had a rare touch
of fantasy and comedy together. It was hilarious at times, and made me think
of my own life sometimes. Thank you Joseph Cox for writing this book. Please
write more soon."
"I've been reading at Golden Hours Radio for the Blind for 12 years or so, and because I came from a further 10 years' experience at the Chicago Guild for the Blind, they let me choose whatever I like, to read. I chose Grobar because I love material that appeals to both adults and children, because it's the kind of story that would keep listeners engaged and has so many twists and turns that they'd tune in each day for a continuation of the story, and at the same time, a new listener would get hooked into the story even if she missed the previous episodes. And it reads so well aloud -- the characters are unique, the story not a rehash of everything else available, the story a fresh one, although it resonates with the best kinds of adventure and spy books. And listeners/readers care about the characters -- it's not just a well-plotted book, it's got dimensional characters with whom children, and adults, can identify. Even the villain's motives are resonant with everyone's feeling, at one time or another, of rejection leading to a desire for revenge. Most of all, the book is fun: fun to read, fun to read aloud, and fun to listen to. I know that the crew at the station were very eager for me to read the sequel, and they're not easy to please!"
"I thought it was great. I expected to find it childish, but was engrossed. I read the whole thing in a single day. It was highly engaging. I laughed out loud at times. The characters were great and the informative sidebars were exactly the kind of thing I'd want my kids reading. I highly recommend it."
| Eric Brumer, Graduate Student |
"Parents and teachers who read Grobar and the Mind Potion to young children will appreciate the graceful language and humor that tell this quietly moral story. Older children will relish the action and the cleverness of the characters. It's appeal to a wide range of young people as well as adults makes this book a rare find. Teachers using this book as a classroom resource will see many possibilities for writing assignments, art projects, and character development activities. It is rare to find a book that a wide range of students and adults will enjoy, remember and pass on to their friends."
| Beverely Shaff, teacher. Mrs. Shaff has been teaching since 1947 |
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