Leo Cockroach: Toy Tester

Leo Cockroach is the cutest bug to hit the pages of kid-lit: funny, clever, and self-reliant. When Leo gets tired of being swatted by Mildred Splatt, CEO of Whattatoy Toy Co., he decides to seek a better position with the company across the street -- Notsogooda Toys. Once there, however, he learns that the grass isn't always greener on the other side. He is a humble hero -- just wanting to do his job and do it well. The language is quite sophisticated, with wry humor and dry wit, but the story is not so complex that lower grades will not understand it. This is a delightful tale of discovering what you love best, and finding a way to achieve your dreams.

We borrowed this book from the library, and I've read it to my son probably 6 times in the last 24 hours. The story and illustrations are clever and funny--I didn't even mind reading it twice in a row. I might actually have to buy us our own copy.

It's hard for kids not to be drawn to a book about an insect testing toys. The very idea of a cockroach testing airplanes is silly and whimsical. The story is fun and Leo is a likable character that the reader quickly begins to root for. Leo is a hard worker who takes pride in his work, but feels under appreciated. The grass always seems greener on the other side, and his adventure teaches him that he actually had things pretty good.The illustrations are interesting and the story flows well. Most young kids will find the story amusing and entertaining.