What do you think?
Rate this book
The Misfits #4
Also Known as Elvis
Skeezie Tookis navigates a pivotal summer of first crushes and tough choices in this conclusion to the bestselling and acclaimed quartet that began with The Misfits.
Skeezie Tookis, also known as Elvis, isn’t looking forward to this summer in Paintbrush Falls. While his best friends Bobby, Joe, and Addie are off on exciting adventures, he’s stuck at home, taking care of his sisters and working five days a week to help out his mom. True, he gets to hang out at the Candy Kitchen with the awesome HellomynameisSteffi, but he also has to contend with Kevin Hennessey’s never-ending bullying. And then there’s the confusing world of girls, especially hot-and-cold Becca, his maybe-crush. And the dog that he misses terribly. And the dad who left two years before, whom Skeezie is convinced is the cause of all his troubles. In the words of the King, Skeezie Tookis is All Shook Up.
Skeezie’s got the leather jacket of a tough guy, but a heart of gold—and his story, the fourth and final chapter of the beloved Misfits series, is brimming with life’s tough choices, love in all directions, and enough sweet potato fries to go around.
Skeezie Tookis, also known as Elvis, isn’t looking forward to this summer in Paintbrush Falls. While his best friends Bobby, Joe, and Addie are off on exciting adventures, he’s stuck at home, taking care of his sisters and working five days a week to help out his mom. True, he gets to hang out at the Candy Kitchen with the awesome HellomynameisSteffi, but he also has to contend with Kevin Hennessey’s never-ending bullying. And then there’s the confusing world of girls, especially hot-and-cold Becca, his maybe-crush. And the dog that he misses terribly. And the dad who left two years before, whom Skeezie is convinced is the cause of all his troubles. In the words of the King, Skeezie Tookis is All Shook Up.
Skeezie’s got the leather jacket of a tough guy, but a heart of gold—and his story, the fourth and final chapter of the beloved Misfits series, is brimming with life’s tough choices, love in all directions, and enough sweet potato fries to go around.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2014
10 people are currently reading
432 people want to read
About the author
James Howe
207 books460 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
James Howe has written more than eighty books in the thirty-plus years he's been writing for young readers. It sometimes confuses people that the author of the humorous Bunnicula series also wrote the dark young adult novel, The Watcher, or such beginning reader series as Pinky and Rex and the E.B. White Read Aloud Award-winning Houndsley and Catina and its sequels. But from the beginning of his career (which came about somewhat by accident after asking himself what kind of vampire a rabbit might make), he has been most interested in letting his imagination take him in whatever direction it cared to. So far, his imagination has led him to picture books, such as I Wish I Were a Butterfly and Brontorina (about a dinosaur who dreams of being a ballerina), mysteries, poetry (in the upcoming Addie on the Inside), and fiction that deals with issues that matter deeply to him. He is especially proud of The Misfits, which inspired national No Name-Calling Week (www.nonamecallingweek.org) and its sequel Totally Joe. He does not know where his imagination will take him in the next thirty-plus years, but he is looking forward to finding out.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
James Howe has written more than eighty books in the thirty-plus years he's been writing for young readers. It sometimes confuses people that the author of the humorous Bunnicula series also wrote the dark young adult novel, The Watcher, or such beginning reader series as Pinky and Rex and the E.B. White Read Aloud Award-winning Houndsley and Catina and its sequels. But from the beginning of his career (which came about somewhat by accident after asking himself what kind of vampire a rabbit might make), he has been most interested in letting his imagination take him in whatever direction it cared to. So far, his imagination has led him to picture books, such as I Wish I Were a Butterfly and Brontorina (about a dinosaur who dreams of being a ballerina), mysteries, poetry (in the upcoming Addie on the Inside), and fiction that deals with issues that matter deeply to him. He is especially proud of The Misfits, which inspired national No Name-Calling Week (www.nonamecallingweek.org) and its sequel Totally Joe. He does not know where his imagination will take him in the next thirty-plus years, but he is looking forward to finding out.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
October 25, 2020
A coming-of-age story about Skeezie (never Schuyler!), a teen who has had to take on many responsibilities due to his dad dumping the family, and the long hours his mother must work. With the help of his three best friends, and a lovely “older woman”, Skeezie manages through his days and finds support when he has some tough decisions to make about his family life.
This book deals with some pretty heavy issues for a middle-grade read. An absentee father, a stressed-out mother who is verbally abusive at times, and parental infidelity seem to make it more appropriate for a Y.A. audience.
This book deals with some pretty heavy issues for a middle-grade read. An absentee father, a stressed-out mother who is verbally abusive at times, and parental infidelity seem to make it more appropriate for a Y.A. audience.
January 30, 2015
I'm so happy this book exists because of a student I had a few years ago. We read The Misfits during "37 1/2 minutes," then were able to follow it up with Totally Joe and Addie on the Inside. The kids I had that year were reluctant readers to say the least, with some serious reading difficulties, but they all loved the series and identified strongly with the characters. The part they loved best from The Misfits was the meeting minutes, because those parts read like a play and they would all take the part of their favorite characters.
One boy loved Skeezie so much that he started insisting I call him Skeezie. He was (understandably) upset that each of the Gang of Five (there's only four of them, that's just the name of the group) got his or her own book except for Skeezie.
So I was at the library the other day, just sort of looking for anything to read, and I came across the binding that announced Also Known as Elvis and I knew it had to be Skeezie's story. I was super-excited and checked it out, of course!
I really like the series, and I think that the original, The Misfits, is actually the weakest link. The other two play with form a little. Joe's story is an "alphabiography" project he's doing for school; Addie's is a book told in verse. This one is through the conceit that it's Skeezie's letter to his unborn son once he's an adult. While I liked all of them, this is by far my favorite. I wasn't expecting it to be my favorite, probably because Skeezie wasn't my favorite of the characters (but now he definitely is).
I think Also Known as Elvis is the most personally relatable books I've read in a long time, perhaps even in decades. That wasn't what I was expecting at all. But James Howe really wrote what it's like to be the oldest child in a divorcing family PERFECTLY. It's such a complicated set of feelings, and I felt myself transported back to my own experiences as I read. Perhaps the moment I related to the most was when Skeezie's dad comes back and goes out to dinner with his mom, they have a big fight, Skeezie is watching his younger siblings so they can go have this big talk, and then he hears about the fallout of the talk later.
The idea I really connected with was that feeling that you don't mind watching your siblings because you want them to be safe and like spending time with them, but you don't like the way your mom takes advantage of you and expects that you don't have anything else going on, that you're always just automatically available to raise her children for her. But you don't want to take these frustrations out on the siblings...or even your mom, exactly. And how it changes your relationship with said siblings, making you more like their parent than their sibling.
Throughout the other Misfits books, Skeezie was always a sort of comic relief character, but this book reveals him to be the deepest and most complicated of all. Well played, Mr. Howe.
One boy loved Skeezie so much that he started insisting I call him Skeezie. He was (understandably) upset that each of the Gang of Five (there's only four of them, that's just the name of the group) got his or her own book except for Skeezie.
So I was at the library the other day, just sort of looking for anything to read, and I came across the binding that announced Also Known as Elvis and I knew it had to be Skeezie's story. I was super-excited and checked it out, of course!
I really like the series, and I think that the original, The Misfits, is actually the weakest link. The other two play with form a little. Joe's story is an "alphabiography" project he's doing for school; Addie's is a book told in verse. This one is through the conceit that it's Skeezie's letter to his unborn son once he's an adult. While I liked all of them, this is by far my favorite. I wasn't expecting it to be my favorite, probably because Skeezie wasn't my favorite of the characters (but now he definitely is).
I think Also Known as Elvis is the most personally relatable books I've read in a long time, perhaps even in decades. That wasn't what I was expecting at all. But James Howe really wrote what it's like to be the oldest child in a divorcing family PERFECTLY. It's such a complicated set of feelings, and I felt myself transported back to my own experiences as I read. Perhaps the moment I related to the most was when Skeezie's dad comes back and goes out to dinner with his mom, they have a big fight, Skeezie is watching his younger siblings so they can go have this big talk, and then he hears about the fallout of the talk later.
The idea I really connected with was that feeling that you don't mind watching your siblings because you want them to be safe and like spending time with them, but you don't like the way your mom takes advantage of you and expects that you don't have anything else going on, that you're always just automatically available to raise her children for her. But you don't want to take these frustrations out on the siblings...or even your mom, exactly. And how it changes your relationship with said siblings, making you more like their parent than their sibling.
Throughout the other Misfits books, Skeezie was always a sort of comic relief character, but this book reveals him to be the deepest and most complicated of all. Well played, Mr. Howe.
July 5, 2017
The gang of 5 is back. This time it's Schuyler "Skeezie" Tookis' story. As they head into the summer, having finally survived 7th grade, Addie, Joe and Bobby all have exciting plans. But not Skeezie. While his friends go off on great vacations, Skeezie is told that he needs to get a job to help pay the bills. After his Dad left, Skeezie has been taking care of his sisters more and trying to help his mother. But money is tight, even with Mom working two jobs. Quite luckily, Steffi at the Candy Kitchen offers Skeezie a job. So, things are off to a pretty good start. But then, as his grandmother always says, "Look what the cat dragged in." Skeezie's father returns, wanting to spend time with him. Anger, confusion, and hope all hit Skeezie at once. He's not really even sure what to feel. What a time for all of his best friends to be gone. But at least there's Steffi to talk to. Skeezie has some important decisions to make and some truths to face.
I loved this book. I think a lot of students will relate to Skeezie and his feelings toward his parents and their separation. The powerful friendship that the four kids have maintained, despite their differences, is so enjoyable to read. It's interesting that the book starts (and finishes) with a letter from Skeezie to his soon-to-be-born son, Elvis. Then retreats back 13 years to tell the story of the summer that "changed everything."
I loved this book. I think a lot of students will relate to Skeezie and his feelings toward his parents and their separation. The powerful friendship that the four kids have maintained, despite their differences, is so enjoyable to read. It's interesting that the book starts (and finishes) with a letter from Skeezie to his soon-to-be-born son, Elvis. Then retreats back 13 years to tell the story of the summer that "changed everything."
June 13, 2014
I love this series! It's not a series in the sense that Harry Potter's a series that you need to read in order. Rather it's a collection of four books now (The Misfits, Totally Joe, Addie on the Inside, and Also Known as Elvis) featuring four good friends. In the Misfits we meet each of the four friends (Joe, Skeezie, Bobby and Addie) and learn about how they start an anti-bullying campaign at their middle school. This book actually inspired similar anti-bullying campaigns in schools across the nation!
The other three books each focus on one of the four friends. Totally Joe, tells Joe's story. Addie on the Inside, tells the story in Addie's voice, and Also Known as Elvis features Skeezie.
What I love about this series is how individual each character is and yet how the group still remains so close and supportive of one another.
Skeezie Tookis dresses in his dad's old leather jacket and slicks back his. So when he someone starts calling him "Big E" as in Elvis, no one is surprised. It's the summer between 7th and 8th grade and Addie, Joe and Bobby are all off on exciting vacations with their families. Meanwhile, Skeezie is at home in Paintbrush Falls working part time at the local diner and taking care of his two younger sisters. His life has been tough since his dad left two years ago. But this summer things start to change.
A story about family, money, friendship, and what it means to take responsibility for your life. Definitely a recommended read.
The other three books each focus on one of the four friends. Totally Joe, tells Joe's story. Addie on the Inside, tells the story in Addie's voice, and Also Known as Elvis features Skeezie.
What I love about this series is how individual each character is and yet how the group still remains so close and supportive of one another.
Skeezie Tookis dresses in his dad's old leather jacket and slicks back his. So when he someone starts calling him "Big E" as in Elvis, no one is surprised. It's the summer between 7th and 8th grade and Addie, Joe and Bobby are all off on exciting vacations with their families. Meanwhile, Skeezie is at home in Paintbrush Falls working part time at the local diner and taking care of his two younger sisters. His life has been tough since his dad left two years ago. But this summer things start to change.
A story about family, money, friendship, and what it means to take responsibility for your life. Definitely a recommended read.
May 4, 2014
And so we finally have Skeezie's character book as the conclusion for James Howe's wonderful Misfits series.
From the very start of the series, I could always tell that Skeezie was more than the wise guy Howe has written him to be; It seemed to me that he was an actor who knows how to leave his problems at home where he thought they ought to be, and then put on the 'joker' role he plays for the Gang of Five; this book sort of proved this to me in some ways.
In this final book, Skeezie learns so much in this one week without his friends around him; perhaps without the people he needs to put on his joker role, he was forced to face things he would have put off thinking about.
We see how much he has grown from the moment he was introduced in chapter 1 of the Misfits to this 'life changing' summer of his to even 12 years later while he waits to for his son to be born and be a father (he totally deserves to be a father after all he's learned and been through)
This book is a wonderful sendoff to the Misfits series and characters. It leaves you with a sense of nostalgia as you see the characters 12 years after you've met them as 12 year old kids. It also gives you a sense of happiness because one way or another, they received a happy ending you know they deserved. Don'tlookatmeI'mnotcrying
From the very start of the series, I could always tell that Skeezie was more than the wise guy Howe has written him to be; It seemed to me that he was an actor who knows how to leave his problems at home where he thought they ought to be, and then put on the 'joker' role he plays for the Gang of Five; this book sort of proved this to me in some ways.
In this final book, Skeezie learns so much in this one week without his friends around him; perhaps without the people he needs to put on his joker role, he was forced to face things he would have put off thinking about.
We see how much he has grown from the moment he was introduced in chapter 1 of the Misfits to this 'life changing' summer of his to even 12 years later while he waits to for his son to be born and be a father (he totally deserves to be a father after all he's learned and been through)
This book is a wonderful sendoff to the Misfits series and characters. It leaves you with a sense of nostalgia as you see the characters 12 years after you've met them as 12 year old kids. It also gives you a sense of happiness because one way or another, they received a happy ending you know they deserved. Don'tlookatmeI'mnotcrying
February 8, 2014
A very pleasant conclusion to "The Misfits" series. This is Skeezie's book and he is a thoroughly likable character. We witness him helping his mom keep the household with his two younger sisters going while she holds down two jobs, working at the local diner to bring in some extra cash and coming to terms with his father who shows up looking for a divorce after a two-year absence during which he provided no child support. And then there's the dog story. Howe writes with affection and heart. This book will make his fans very happy.
July 18, 2018
The Best Book in the Series
I enjoyed reading the first two books in the series. The third one just wasn’t my ‘thing’ but still done well. James Howe’s final book in the series felt like it was written for me. Skeezie’s journey to find himself. No spoilers, just loved every tear-stained page. 4.75 for sweet potato fries, family and friends.
I enjoyed reading the first two books in the series. The third one just wasn’t my ‘thing’ but still done well. James Howe’s final book in the series felt like it was written for me. Skeezie’s journey to find himself. No spoilers, just loved every tear-stained page. 4.75 for sweet potato fries, family and friends.
February 20, 2015
The main characters are skeezie, bobby, joe, addie, mom and dad. The book is about a kid that has to help his mother out with paying the bill and a dead beat dad that comes back and wants his son to live with him. I conclude that he will have fun at the end and decide to live with his mom
September 3, 2013
Great ending to the Misfits books, read it in three hours- but I read it as an ARC, so let's see how it turns out once it hits shelves!
December 13, 2014
i neeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeed it in my lifeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
March 8, 2020
This is the best book in the series by far.
I thought this book would be a bad way to end the series because I thought Skeezie was funny, but not really a complex character or someone that I'd want to talk to without a group of people because he just seemed a little dumb and boring. But then I met him. And I like fell in love. He really cares about his family and is awesome. He still is acts masculine, though, which is not a priority really for me, but it is interesting that the author was able to create a guy that I thought was all 'tough guy' (or 'guy-guy' as Joe calls it) and then it turns out he's got real feelings and it doesn't feel like he did a 180 between the the 3rd and 4th books.
Like I said, I didn't have high hopes for this book, or to be honest, any of the books after The Misfits but this book just finished the series in the best way possible. Also the books feel connected but also like thy're written by 4 different kids. Which is an awesome thing that James Howe did. Like the kids each explain the reason for the name 'The Gang of Five' in their own way. And Bobby's thing is 'swear on a stack of pancakes', Skeezie makes lists, etc.
To sum it up: AWESOME!
I thought this book would be a bad way to end the series because I thought Skeezie was funny, but not really a complex character or someone that I'd want to talk to without a group of people because he just seemed a little dumb and boring. But then I met him. And I like fell in love. He really cares about his family and is awesome. He still is acts masculine, though, which is not a priority really for me, but it is interesting that the author was able to create a guy that I thought was all 'tough guy' (or 'guy-guy' as Joe calls it) and then it turns out he's got real feelings and it doesn't feel like he did a 180 between the the 3rd and 4th books.
Like I said, I didn't have high hopes for this book, or to be honest, any of the books after The Misfits but this book just finished the series in the best way possible. Also the books feel connected but also like thy're written by 4 different kids. Which is an awesome thing that James Howe did. Like the kids each explain the reason for the name 'The Gang of Five' in their own way. And Bobby's thing is 'swear on a stack of pancakes', Skeezie makes lists, etc.
To sum it up: AWESOME!
October 28, 2022
The book I read was Also known as Elvis. This is the 4th and final book of James Howe’s book series The misfits. This book had the potential to have a better rating than it received but I feel like it was more focused on the side characters than the main character.
This book revolves around the final character in the friend group, Skeezie. Skeezie grew up without his dad and has to take care of his two little sisters while his mom is at work. One day while he is at home taking care of his little sisters his mom comes home from work to tell him that he needs to get a job.
The main reason I am giving this book 3 stars is because the character development in Skeezie comes way later in the book than I wanted it to. The thing that this book did very well was expressing Skeezie’s feelings. Every time he felt a feeling, let it be sadness, anger, or happiness it would as if I was feeling those feelings too.
Besides all its flaws I would recommend this book to others. Honestly, I would like to read all the other books in this series in hope that’s they are better than this one.
This book revolves around the final character in the friend group, Skeezie. Skeezie grew up without his dad and has to take care of his two little sisters while his mom is at work. One day while he is at home taking care of his little sisters his mom comes home from work to tell him that he needs to get a job.
The main reason I am giving this book 3 stars is because the character development in Skeezie comes way later in the book than I wanted it to. The thing that this book did very well was expressing Skeezie’s feelings. Every time he felt a feeling, let it be sadness, anger, or happiness it would as if I was feeling those feelings too.
Besides all its flaws I would recommend this book to others. Honestly, I would like to read all the other books in this series in hope that’s they are better than this one.
March 14, 2020
"Also Known as Elvis" is the final of four books in "The Misfits" series. Each book is from the perspective of one of four friends who for various reasons don't fit in with the popular kids and jocks at Paintbrush Falls High in upstate New York. I read "Also Known as Elvis" out of order -- am currently reading "Totally Joe", having already completed "The Misfits" and "Addie on the Inside". It doesn't matter though. All of the books are stand alones even though each contains references to events and the history covered in the others. I know when I finish "Totally Joe", which I'm within a few pages of doing, I'll wish there were another one. Fortunately, these books are four of more than 80 -- from board books through young adult -- author James Howe has written for young readers. Does "Bunnicula" sound familiar? One that piques my interest is "A people who would not kneel : Panama, the United States, and the San Blas Kuna", which I'm adding to my "to read" list.
December 7, 2024
The Gang of Five is back again, for one last time. But this time, Skeezie—Also Known as Elvis—is center stage. His life is much more that leather jackets, hair mousse, and tough exteriors. He is a softie at heart and their are many titles he holds: friend, son, brother, stand-in dad, and soon to be...wow, not going to spoil it for you. You just have to read it.
In 2021, I stumbled upon No Name Calling Week as I was researching events for my middle school GSA to partake in. That led me to James Howe's The Misfits and I'm so happy it did. Over the next three years I worked my way through the whole series. My favorite is still Totally Joe because I could connect so much to that character. However, I did really enjoy the finale. It had a similar feeling to the ending of the movie Stand By Me—an adventure coming to a close, but you know what happens to each of the gang. Recommended for GR 6-8.
In 2021, I stumbled upon No Name Calling Week as I was researching events for my middle school GSA to partake in. That led me to James Howe's The Misfits and I'm so happy it did. Over the next three years I worked my way through the whole series. My favorite is still Totally Joe because I could connect so much to that character. However, I did really enjoy the finale. It had a similar feeling to the ending of the movie Stand By Me—an adventure coming to a close, but you know what happens to each of the gang. Recommended for GR 6-8.
December 27, 2017
I finished this series way too quickly. I loved all four books but this was the hardest book for me.
If I'd been asked, I'd have guessed that the Addie book would have been the most difficult because she's the only female character and she's smarter than she ought to be. In second place would have been Joe's story since he's fat. Instead this one was because my parents were divorced when I was in 6th grade and it was a messy divorce with parents acting like kids and leaving my brother and I alone, neglected, and fought over. This book brought back some ugly memories.
But I still loved the book. It has a happier ending than my life had at 25.
If I'd been asked, I'd have guessed that the Addie book would have been the most difficult because she's the only female character and she's smarter than she ought to be. In second place would have been Joe's story since he's fat. Instead this one was because my parents were divorced when I was in 6th grade and it was a messy divorce with parents acting like kids and leaving my brother and I alone, neglected, and fought over. This book brought back some ugly memories.
But I still loved the book. It has a happier ending than my life had at 25.
August 1, 2017
Been so long since I have read the other books in this series, that it took a little bit to get into it. Which doesn't really matter too much since this book almost exclusively deals with Skeezie, AKA Elvis. It does start out with a 'script style' conversation between him and his friends, which is so rapid fire it is hard to keep up with who is talking since we aren't use to their voices yet.
Al in all, this was an enjoyable read that had me staying up too late last night to finish it. It was a little predictable.
Al in all, this was an enjoyable read that had me staying up too late last night to finish it. It was a little predictable.
June 1, 2017
This is the final book in the series.
Narrated by an older Skeezie, Howe's plot
looks back at the changes in his characters, while
also addressing the issue of divorce from a child's
perspective.
Narrated by an older Skeezie, Howe's plot
looks back at the changes in his characters, while
also addressing the issue of divorce from a child's
perspective.
May 9, 2018
Really good series... this sequel told by Skeezie as an adult, talking to his soon-to-be-born son. He recalls his childhood, his friendships, his dad. Very good voice this character; we get to know him well.
February 9, 2019
4th book in series. Nice conclusion following Skeezie's decisions and hardships. Gives you a taste of the future for the Gang of Five.
April 26, 2020
Great book and final book of series!
April 19, 2014
"Elvis" deals with an issue that many of my students, especially my male students, have been dealing with: fathers who have abandoned their children or partially abandoned their children. (A young man in my bookgroup started to cry as he talked about what this book meant to him.) Skeezie refuses to take off his absent father's black leather jacket, while at the same time is furious with his dad. His confusion with his love/hate emotions gave me an insight into the difficulties of dealing with a missing parent. Skeezie comments that when your dad leaves, he takes some of your mom as well, and Skeezie's relationship with his mom has morphed into one where he becomes more of a co-parent, at the ripe old age of 13, than a kid. He has to care for his younger siblings, listen to his mother's problems, and then has to find a job to help out with the bills. And to add more confusion to Skeezie's life, there is the popular girl who sits down with her friends at the Candy Kitchen, and while she won't acknowledge Skeezie with even a look, she is texting the misfit Skeezie under the table where her friends can't see. As with all of the books in THE MISFITS series, ALSO KNOWN AS ELVIS is a quick read, but one that needs to be re-read slowly because of its multi-layers. My teen book group spent their entire Thursday evening debating whether Skeezie's dad and Becca Wrightsmen are good people who have good reasons to treat Skeezie in their hot and cold manners or whether they are just cruel. Some of the other debates had to do with whether it is ever ok to lie or be evasive with your best friends. How important pets, especially dogs, are. How being a wisecracker often is a way of hiding who one is inside. How the "Steffi and Skeezie"
dialogues model how to have a meaningful conversation. Great book and loved by my teens.
dialogues model how to have a meaningful conversation. Great book and loved by my teens.
December 19, 2016
In this fourth and final book in the series that began with The Misfits, Skeezie Tookis takes center stage. In a letter addressed to his newborn son, he tells about his difficulties repairing his relationships with his mom, who expects too much of him, and his dad, who left the family and has recently returned.
Despite his ridiculous name and anachronistic interest in dressing like a greaser, Skeezie is a likable character with a memorable voice. His family problems are not necessarily original, but his thought processes as he works through them are believable, and his actions suit his thoughts and feelings. Though in real life he would be too young to have a job (minors in New York can’t work until they’re fourteen), his job at the Candy Kitchen and his conversations with his co-worker, Steffi, show a tender and vulnerable side to his character that didn’t seem as prevalent in the earlier books of the series. The dialogue-only chapters between them are some of the best scenes in the entire book.
Readers who have enjoyed The Misfits, Totally Joe, and Addie on the Inside will be pleased to see that the end of this book wraps up not just Skeezie’s story, but also the story of the whole "Gang of Five." The author gives glimpses into the future lives of each of the “misfits” and provides enough closure to tie up the four-story arc. Middle school kids who themselves feel ostracized will take away an "it gets better" message and may find some hope to encourage them in their own difficulties.
Also Known As Elvis is best enjoyed as a part of the series rather than as a stand-alone, but it does compare nicely to Strider, which also involves the complicated relationship between a young man and his absent dad.
Despite his ridiculous name and anachronistic interest in dressing like a greaser, Skeezie is a likable character with a memorable voice. His family problems are not necessarily original, but his thought processes as he works through them are believable, and his actions suit his thoughts and feelings. Though in real life he would be too young to have a job (minors in New York can’t work until they’re fourteen), his job at the Candy Kitchen and his conversations with his co-worker, Steffi, show a tender and vulnerable side to his character that didn’t seem as prevalent in the earlier books of the series. The dialogue-only chapters between them are some of the best scenes in the entire book.
Readers who have enjoyed The Misfits, Totally Joe, and Addie on the Inside will be pleased to see that the end of this book wraps up not just Skeezie’s story, but also the story of the whole "Gang of Five." The author gives glimpses into the future lives of each of the “misfits” and provides enough closure to tie up the four-story arc. Middle school kids who themselves feel ostracized will take away an "it gets better" message and may find some hope to encourage them in their own difficulties.
Also Known As Elvis is best enjoyed as a part of the series rather than as a stand-alone, but it does compare nicely to Strider, which also involves the complicated relationship between a young man and his absent dad.
April 19, 2014
This book was absolutely amazing.
I've been waiting for this for so long--the first book came out in 2001, and this is the fourth and final book, which just came out a couple days ago. I'm a bit older than the target audience at this point, and I did understand some things in here that I wouldn't have gotten if I were eleven or twelve.
First of all, the story definitely had a darker tone than the previous three, but Skeezie's life is harder than his friends', so that makes sense. He's always been my favorite character, and his relationship with Steffi is adorable. His troubles pulled at my heartstrings, but there are also definitely funny moments.
I do feel like this book lacked some of the charm that the first two or three had, like Howe didn't put as much effort into this one, and like he tried to wrap it up really fast at the end.
For me, more than anything, this series has been a way of reclaiming my middle school years--I had a tough time back then. The camaraderie the Gang of Five have with each other is something I'd always wished for.
This series was fantastic, and this book the best conclusion I could've hoped for.
I've been waiting for this for so long--the first book came out in 2001, and this is the fourth and final book, which just came out a couple days ago. I'm a bit older than the target audience at this point, and I did understand some things in here that I wouldn't have gotten if I were eleven or twelve.
First of all, the story definitely had a darker tone than the previous three, but Skeezie's life is harder than his friends', so that makes sense. He's always been my favorite character, and his relationship with Steffi is adorable. His troubles pulled at my heartstrings, but there are also definitely funny moments.
I do feel like this book lacked some of the charm that the first two or three had, like Howe didn't put as much effort into this one, and like he tried to wrap it up really fast at the end.
For me, more than anything, this series has been a way of reclaiming my middle school years--I had a tough time back then. The camaraderie the Gang of Five have with each other is something I'd always wished for.
This series was fantastic, and this book the best conclusion I could've hoped for.
October 28, 2024
Language - PG13 (17 swears, 0 "f"), Sexual Content - PG; Violence - PG
The Gang of Five is on summer vacation and it seems like everyone is having fun except Skeezie. Bobby's going camping with his dad, Joe is going to Canada, and Addie is going on a road trip. Meanwhile, Skeezie has to get a job, his dad comes to visit, and girls are confusing. Since when was summer hard to deal with?
While this companion wasn't as good as The Misfits, I still liked it. (And while I recommend reading The Misfits, it is not necessary to read it in order to enjoy this book.) In picking this book up I wanted more involvement with all the characters I know and love rather than just Skeezie. Nevertheless, it turned out to be nice learning what happened to the Gang of Five after the initial book, and to read Skeezie's story specifically. Sometimes we don't know who we are or where life is taking us (especially in middle school), but life has a way of working out. I hope everyone gets to be as happy as Skeezie is at the end of his story.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
The Gang of Five is on summer vacation and it seems like everyone is having fun except Skeezie. Bobby's going camping with his dad, Joe is going to Canada, and Addie is going on a road trip. Meanwhile, Skeezie has to get a job, his dad comes to visit, and girls are confusing. Since when was summer hard to deal with?
While this companion wasn't as good as The Misfits, I still liked it. (And while I recommend reading The Misfits, it is not necessary to read it in order to enjoy this book.) In picking this book up I wanted more involvement with all the characters I know and love rather than just Skeezie. Nevertheless, it turned out to be nice learning what happened to the Gang of Five after the initial book, and to read Skeezie's story specifically. Sometimes we don't know who we are or where life is taking us (especially in middle school), but life has a way of working out. I hope everyone gets to be as happy as Skeezie is at the end of his story.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
January 6, 2016
The book "Also Known as Elvis" by James Howe continues from shortly after the events of the "Misfits". Instead it takes place in the summer after the Gang of Four finished 7th Grade. This time it primarily focuses about Skeezie instead of Bobby. The main events of the book are that Skeezie has to find a summer job to help out and support the family. He winds up working at the Candy Kitchen which also is his favorite place to hang out at. Another major event is that his dad has returned to be with Skeezie and his sisters. He eventually finds out they are getting divorced and he has to go with his dad. In the end he does not have to go but has to visit his dad. His dad did this out of an act of sympathy.
I personally thought this book was a good book. I got to learn a lot more about Skeezie. In the other books they mention him as a lazy person who likes to eat. But in this book I learn about his past and get to know more of his family. I more about his relationships with other people. This book gave me the whole "Skeezie" package this time.
I personally thought this book was a good book. I got to learn a lot more about Skeezie. In the other books they mention him as a lazy person who likes to eat. But in this book I learn about his past and get to know more of his family. I more about his relationships with other people. This book gave me the whole "Skeezie" package this time.
September 4, 2014
Skeezie Tookis (also known as Elvis) has been dealing with the repercussions of his dad walking out on the family for two years. Now that he is twelve, his mom wants him to get a summer job to help with the finances at the house. He's already been "the man of the house" for two years, taking care of his two younger sisters while his mom works two jobs. While his best friends are going out of town on summer vacations, Skeezie takes a job at the Candy Kitchen and is shocked when his motorcycle-riding, cool guy dad walks in one day out of the blue wearing a button-up shirt and a tie. Suddenly his dad wants to be a part of Skeezie's life again, but Skeezie doesn't know how to react.
I love that James Howe has written books about the "Gang of Five" and about the kids individually so they each get a chance to shine. Judging by how this one ends, I'm guessing this will be my last chance to read about the gang.
I love that James Howe has written books about the "Gang of Five" and about the kids individually so they each get a chance to shine. Judging by how this one ends, I'm guessing this will be my last chance to read about the gang.
April 21, 2016
"Also Known as Elvis, a Companion of the Misfits" by James Howe is about a kid named Skeezie, Skeezie is about 13 years of age and already has a job at a restaurant called the Candy Kitchen. Skeezie has to work because when he was little his dad left the family and left Skeezie and his two sisters to the mother. When Skeezie's dad finally returns after a long time, Skeezie has to make a very difficult decision between families.
I liked this book, I thought that the characters were well developed. The plot of the story is also very interesting but can be a little confusing at times. This book is also relatable at times, I would definitely continue reading The Misfits Series.
I would recommend this book to both boys and girls. Middle Schoolers would be the best fit for the comprehension level. This book may also be relatable to families with issues. I would definitely recommend this book.
I liked this book, I thought that the characters were well developed. The plot of the story is also very interesting but can be a little confusing at times. This book is also relatable at times, I would definitely continue reading The Misfits Series.
I would recommend this book to both boys and girls. Middle Schoolers would be the best fit for the comprehension level. This book may also be relatable to families with issues. I would definitely recommend this book.
October 19, 2015
In this final companion to The Misfits, we get to hear Skeezie's story. The summer between 7th and 8th grade is a hard one for him. The rest of the Gang of Five (Joe, Bobby, & Addie) are heading out on vacation, while he is stuck at home taking care of his sisters. His mother works two jobs, and things have gotten bad enough that she asks him to find work over the summer. There are not many jobs that a 13 year can get, so Skeezie is really lucky to get a part-time job working at the Candy Kitchen with HellomynameisSteffi. He is muddling along, trying to make the best of it, when his dad shows up for the first time since leaving them two years before. Now everything is all mixed up, and Skeezie doesn't know what to do. This is an excellent story, even if you haven't read the other three. Fans of the first three will enjoy the final wrap at the end. Recommended for grades 5 & up.
December 19, 2016
Before you read this book, it is recommended that you read the first book in the Misfits series. If you haven't this book may not make much sense. We start with a boy that some people might mistake for the famous singer, Elvis. He has been through some life struggles with his family, and he lives with his single mother and two sisters. His mom works quite often and wants her son, commonly known as Skeezie, to get a job and help her out. One day in summer break his dad comes back into town but Skeezie is unsure for how long. He tries to shy away from his dad, but his father wants to spend some time with him before he has to go back to his new fiance. This story may not be the most gripping of all novels, but you might find yourself to relate to Skeezie and his struggles. All in all, it is a good read, especially if you have read the other Misfits.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2017
Living with parents who hate each other is hard, but dealing with divorced parents is also hard. This book explores Skeezie’s sadness and confusion of ‘why doesn’t dad live here anymore’ without becoming depressing – a good balancing act. When Skeezie’s friends leave for the summer, he has to look harder at his own life and decide what he wants to do with himself.
This is the 4th book & I have not read the rest of the series. There were probably in-jokes that I missed, but I enjoyed the book.
This is the 4th book & I have not read the rest of the series. There were probably in-jokes that I missed, but I enjoyed the book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews