Review: A Boy Called Duct Tape by Christopher Cloud

A Boy Called Duct Tape
written by Christopher Cloud
published by Christopher Cloud

find it here: (affiliate links) Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Book Depository, Goodreads

Why did I pick this book: I was asked by the publicist to review this title. I’m always looking for a good middle grade book that I can share with my boys when they get old enough. (I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)

Did I enjoy this book: I loved this book. I read it every free chance I had and didn’t put it down until the very end.

This was such a fun read. It had the boy who was different from his classmates, not a geek or anything “typical.” Pablo’s family just didn’t have a lot of money and some of the other kids, one in particular made fun of him. Pablo didn’t feel bad for himself or his family, he just went about his business. One day his luck changed, and he, his sister, and their cousin found themselves on the adventure of their lives. They were swindled, determined, and brave.

I loved that Pablo’s first thought was to help his mom. I loved that Pablo wanted to protect his little sister but didn’t want to hold her back. I loved that the popular cousin had no problem hanging out with her cousins in their very small town and embarking on this crazy quest. Monroe was fantastic. He took a chance on these kids. I think he just wanted to teach them about spelunking, but I think he was hopeful as well.

All-in-all, this was a fantastic read that really surprised me. I thought it would be okay for me and geared more towards the younger crowd. Well, it was more than okay for me. It was wonderful.

Would I recommend it: Absolutely!

Will I read it again: I will when it is time for my boys to read it.

About the book – from Goodreads: Pablo Perez is a 12-year-old kid without much going for him. His classmates have dubbed him “Duct Tape” because his tattered discount-store sneakers are held together with…you guessed it, duct tape. He can’t escape the bullying.

Pablo’s luck begins to change after he finds a $20 gold coin while swimming with his sister in a river near their home. Pablo later buys a $1 treasure map at the county fair. The map shows the route to the “lost treasure” of the outlaw Jesse James. Pablo can’t help but wonder: Is there a link between the map and the gold coin?

He is determined to find out, and he, his 9-year-old sister, Pia, and 13-year-old cousin, Kiki, hire an ill-mannered cave guide, Monroe Huff, and begin a treacherous underground adventure in search of treasure. Their treasure hunt is made more perilous because they are being followed by the notorious Blood brothers, who want the treasure for themselves. The Blood brothers will stop at nothing to claim the treasure as their own.