I read this book for my kids book club.
What a fun little book. I thoroughly enjoyed the newspaper clippings at the beginning and end of the story, they had me laughing out loud.
However, I would not say that this is an exceptional children's book. Or even a very good children's book. I'd say... it's a fun little book.
The writing began to get old quite quickly. The main themes were too few and too overused. I did NOT like the way that the author encourages bullied children to attempt to bully their bullies. (Did that sentence make sense?)
The plot had so many holes in it I decided to stop keeping count. The story-line was dragged out in some places and towards the end felt incredibly rushed. I really would have liked to see more PDF action with the original gang of 5. (That definitely doesn't make sense, but it would do if you'd read the book).
Despite all these factors, it still makes an enjoyable children's book. I'm sure kids would read this and even feel scared in some parts and laugh in others. The illustrations are interesting and helpful. The characters are good enough to get by.
Not one of the best children's books I've ever read, but far from the worst.