Busted by Dan Gemeinhart

How I Came Across It... *I have been a fan of Dan Gemeinhart since his very first novel. I have loved them all. Many have been shared with my readers in my fourth grade class. I've met Dan on several occasions, and he is the best. I was excited to see he had written a new middle-grade novel and was even more excited when I was granted an E-Galley from NetGalley. The book will be released into the wild on October 7, 2025. What It's About - Five Things You Need to Know... *Oscar Aberdeen doesn't have the typical life of a twelve-year-old boy.

*He lives in a retirement home with his grandfather and has been there for quite some time.

*When Oscar finds out their rent is going to be increased, he wants to step up and help his grandfather get the money.

*When Oscar confides in resident, Jimmy Deluca, he finds a way to get the cash he is in need of.

*Oscar helps Jimmy "break out" of the retirement home and they set off an an adventure of a lifetime.

What I Thought of It - Five Observations/Reflections... *One of the things I admire most about Dan Gemeinhart is that each of his novels is quite different from his previous works.

*This was the perfect story to read during summer vacation 2025 because it was full of adventures, mysterious, and one wild ride.

*I so enjoyed the relationships between Oscar, Jimmy, and a new friend of Oscar's.

*For the most part, the plot is fun, silly, and full of twists and turns.

*There were some heart-warming moments toward the end of the story which is "signature" Dan Gemeinhart. Who Should Read It... *Dan's stories are perfect for readers in grades four, five, and six. They are also geared toward students in the middle-school setting. This particular story could be used with kids in grades three and above. It would make for a fun and engaging class-read aloud. Happy Reading!

Rating... 4 out of 5 stars