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Jesper Jinx #1
Jesper Jinx
Jesper Jinx is eleven, and probably the unluckiest person in all of Puffington Hill. Everything he touches seems to end up in sweet disaster. Hence his nickname 'Jinx'.
In this first book of Jesper Jinx's wonderfully wicked adventures you're going to meet Jesper's family and Snowy the Cat.
Also, there's a mysterious new classmate with a moustache. And it's up to Jesper to launch his famous Boredom Breaker.
As Jesper so frequently says, 'What harm would it do to have a little fun?'
Humorous middle grade fiction from author Marko Kitti.
In this first book of Jesper Jinx's wonderfully wicked adventures you're going to meet Jesper's family and Snowy the Cat.
Also, there's a mysterious new classmate with a moustache. And it's up to Jesper to launch his famous Boredom Breaker.
As Jesper so frequently says, 'What harm would it do to have a little fun?'
Humorous middle grade fiction from author Marko Kitti.
- GenresMiddle GradeChildrens
150 pages, Paperback
First published April 27, 2014
About the author
Marko Kitti
24 books36 followersMarko Kitti is a Finnish writer and illustrator.
Find more about Marko's children's books at www.jesperjinx.com and www.puffingtonhill.com
Marko's Finnish publications include two collections of short stories, two novels for adult readers and one novel for young adult readers. His Finnish novel Meidän maailma (Our World) was shortlisted for the Runeberg Prize in 2009.
Find more about Marko's children's books at www.jesperjinx.com and www.puffingtonhill.com
Marko's Finnish publications include two collections of short stories, two novels for adult readers and one novel for young adult readers. His Finnish novel Meidän maailma (Our World) was shortlisted for the Runeberg Prize in 2009.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
April 2, 2015
Hott Review:
Oh my! I loved this book! I sat down sad one evening and promptly starting laughing my way through this great book! It’s perfect for those reluctant readers you can’t get to pick up a thing or the children who love to have you read to them!
Jesper is a fun middle-grade boy whose antics and bad luck get him into more trouble than he’s able to handle. What sets this apart is that it’s told by his neighbor who stole the stores of Jasper’s life to alleviate his writers block. The whole premise is fun – especially the keeping fun secrets part!
More…
Author: Marko Kitti
Source: I downloaded Jesper Jinx as a Free Read from Kindle on September 14, 2014 and promptly forgot about until Marko asked me to review it ;)
Grade: A
Ages: 6-12 (though I’m sure my reluctant reader teenage son will read every word too!)
Setting: Puffington Hill, England
Oh my! I loved this book! I sat down sad one evening and promptly starting laughing my way through this great book! It’s perfect for those reluctant readers you can’t get to pick up a thing or the children who love to have you read to them!
Jesper is a fun middle-grade boy whose antics and bad luck get him into more trouble than he’s able to handle. What sets this apart is that it’s told by his neighbor who stole the stores of Jasper’s life to alleviate his writers block. The whole premise is fun – especially the keeping fun secrets part!
More…
Author: Marko Kitti
Source: I downloaded Jesper Jinx as a Free Read from Kindle on September 14, 2014 and promptly forgot about until Marko asked me to review it ;)
Grade: A
Ages: 6-12 (though I’m sure my reluctant reader teenage son will read every word too!)
Setting: Puffington Hill, England
May 8, 2014
When I was contacted by the author to review Jesper Jinx I was a bit hesitant. I had not heard or the book or the author before. I did some research and took a quick look inside this book, and what I read had me in stitches, so I sent an email back saying I would love a copy. Jesper Jinx is a short, quick read, only being 150 pages long, but I actually lost count of the amount of times I laughed whilst reading Jesper Jinx.
I really don't want to explain too much over each individual story that is in Jesper Jinx, so this review is going to me more about what I thought, than what actually happened.
I will be the first to admit that Jesper Jinx is not aimed for my age at all, in fact it's more suited for my nephew or niece, so knowing this I did go into reading Jesper Jinx with the intention that I was reading it for my niece or nephew. I took my 'adult' head off, and regressed a lot of years to my younger self.
Jesper Jinx contains three stories, four if you count the point of view from the cat, JESPER JINX and the COLOURFUL CAT, JESPER JINX and the SPANISH SHENANIGANS and a bonus story: JESPER'S RIDICULOUSLY SHORT NIGHTY-NIGHT TALE
The introduction for Jesper Jinx was a unique one, we firstly get to see Jesper at home with a Boredom Buster. We then get an introduction from the author when he bumps into Jesper, and what follows is Jesper telling the author his stories that involve Boredom Busters, in other words some ridiculously funny pranks.
Within the pages of Jesper Jinx there are also some images of Jesper and some characters from within the pages, some of these are even in colour on the kindle version too. They add a nice touch to the book and I looked forward to seeing what images would be shown next.
Jesper
[source]
Snowy
[source]
Jesper Jinx is a good Middle Grade book, and even I am looking forward to seeing what other Boredom Busters he has in store.
I really don't want to explain too much over each individual story that is in Jesper Jinx, so this review is going to me more about what I thought, than what actually happened.
I will be the first to admit that Jesper Jinx is not aimed for my age at all, in fact it's more suited for my nephew or niece, so knowing this I did go into reading Jesper Jinx with the intention that I was reading it for my niece or nephew. I took my 'adult' head off, and regressed a lot of years to my younger self.
Jesper Jinx contains three stories, four if you count the point of view from the cat, JESPER JINX and the COLOURFUL CAT, JESPER JINX and the SPANISH SHENANIGANS and a bonus story: JESPER'S RIDICULOUSLY SHORT NIGHTY-NIGHT TALE
The introduction for Jesper Jinx was a unique one, we firstly get to see Jesper at home with a Boredom Buster. We then get an introduction from the author when he bumps into Jesper, and what follows is Jesper telling the author his stories that involve Boredom Busters, in other words some ridiculously funny pranks.
Within the pages of Jesper Jinx there are also some images of Jesper and some characters from within the pages, some of these are even in colour on the kindle version too. They add a nice touch to the book and I looked forward to seeing what images would be shown next.
Jesper
[source]
Snowy
[source]
Jesper Jinx is a good Middle Grade book, and even I am looking forward to seeing what other Boredom Busters he has in store.
October 21, 2014
BEWARE THE BOREDOM BUSTER
You know this boy. If you are teacher, or were a teacher in a middle grade classroom, you know this boy. Or at least this type of boy. Jesper Jinx is an eleven year old boy who bores easily and as a result begins what he calls the Boredom Buster. The antics that ensue usually spell trouble for Jesper and those around him. Family, friends, classmates and teachers. Things in Puffington Hill where Jesper lives are never boring.
The narration of this story adds to its interest factor. At least it did for me, however, my son was a bit confused by all the changes in narration through out the chapters and I had to make sure I told him from whose point of view the chapter was done. A more experienced reader will likely follow easily. There was one reference to a product that my son and I were not familiar with and had to do some research. Guarana Antarctia, an energy drink which we discovered is the most famous soda drink in Brazil. Who knew? This helped to understand its significance to the first story where we are introduced to Jesper.
After you get passed the first 2 chapters which introduce the reader to Jesper, his family and how he came to know the author; each chapter can stand alone. Some chapters were narrated by Jesper himself; while another the family cat narrated. In the second chapter the story is told from the voice of the author who just happens to be a writer living in Puffington Hill and who befriends Jesper and gets an all access pass to all of his stories. Jesper makes him promise that he can write his amazing stories but warns him he will never give him permission to publish them because then he would likely be grounded by his parents or expelled from school. The author then requires his readers to promise not to tell Jesper about this book. I hope beyond hope that Jesper never finds out that my son and I read the book and that I wrote this review. Ok and now you have to promise not to tell Jesper that you read this review.
Although this book perhaps was a bit too much for my son at age 7 I feel this book would be great for boys between the ages of 9-12. The subject matter appealed to my son as I think it would to a lot of boys. A caveat, however, if your child shall attempt any of the antics he/she read from the book because you got him/her the book based on my review I can not be held responsible. You are warned that it is a book about pranks and boys ideas about how to bust out of boredom. If you have boys you know! I am always on the hunt for books that would appeal to my son, engage his interest in reading, and provide entertainment value. My son was eager to know what happened with Jesper, his sister and a spider. Oops, I may have said too much.
I received a free pdf copy of the book to facilitate this review. All the opinions are my own and that of my son who helped me review this book. I only review books I feel my children might enjoy.
You know this boy. If you are teacher, or were a teacher in a middle grade classroom, you know this boy. Or at least this type of boy. Jesper Jinx is an eleven year old boy who bores easily and as a result begins what he calls the Boredom Buster. The antics that ensue usually spell trouble for Jesper and those around him. Family, friends, classmates and teachers. Things in Puffington Hill where Jesper lives are never boring.
The narration of this story adds to its interest factor. At least it did for me, however, my son was a bit confused by all the changes in narration through out the chapters and I had to make sure I told him from whose point of view the chapter was done. A more experienced reader will likely follow easily. There was one reference to a product that my son and I were not familiar with and had to do some research. Guarana Antarctia, an energy drink which we discovered is the most famous soda drink in Brazil. Who knew? This helped to understand its significance to the first story where we are introduced to Jesper.
After you get passed the first 2 chapters which introduce the reader to Jesper, his family and how he came to know the author; each chapter can stand alone. Some chapters were narrated by Jesper himself; while another the family cat narrated. In the second chapter the story is told from the voice of the author who just happens to be a writer living in Puffington Hill and who befriends Jesper and gets an all access pass to all of his stories. Jesper makes him promise that he can write his amazing stories but warns him he will never give him permission to publish them because then he would likely be grounded by his parents or expelled from school. The author then requires his readers to promise not to tell Jesper about this book. I hope beyond hope that Jesper never finds out that my son and I read the book and that I wrote this review. Ok and now you have to promise not to tell Jesper that you read this review.
Although this book perhaps was a bit too much for my son at age 7 I feel this book would be great for boys between the ages of 9-12. The subject matter appealed to my son as I think it would to a lot of boys. A caveat, however, if your child shall attempt any of the antics he/she read from the book because you got him/her the book based on my review I can not be held responsible. You are warned that it is a book about pranks and boys ideas about how to bust out of boredom. If you have boys you know! I am always on the hunt for books that would appeal to my son, engage his interest in reading, and provide entertainment value. My son was eager to know what happened with Jesper, his sister and a spider. Oops, I may have said too much.
I received a free pdf copy of the book to facilitate this review. All the opinions are my own and that of my son who helped me review this book. I only review books I feel my children might enjoy.
June 6, 2014
I have to say that I found this book highly entertaining. Jesper Jinx is an eleven year old live-wire from Puffington Hill, and he is well known for having a reputation for activities that have a habit of ending in disaster! Most of Jesper's antics materialize when he's bored! He is famous for his 'boredom breakers!' What's the harm in a little fun? Is Jesper's philosophy!
This book provides an abundance of entertainment and fun, in Jesper's home, and in particular, at Jesper's Junior School! Every good book needs some great characters, and Jesper Jinx certainly has plenty of those! His ill-tempered and clumsy, older sister Melinda, becomes a revenge target, when she makes the mistake of threatening to tell everyone about Jesper's crush on Chloe!
There is one special character that I really enjoyed, and that is Snowy, the white cat, who has an attitude! This book includes a story that's told by Snowy, the white cat, and it's called “The Great Escape From The Kitchen!” - it's good fun too!
Another story I really liked is called “Jesper Jinx and the Spanish Shenanigans.” A new pupil arrives at Jesper's school, and his name's Jose Maria, and he's from Spain. He's even got a moustache! And a ferret called Fernando! Needless to say, Jesper and his best friend, Oliver Oliverson, encourage Jose Maria to step-out-of-line! And Jesper's teacher, the lanky Miss Parrot, becomes the target for several classroom and playground antics! However, this story ends in a shocking revelation! But, sorry! You'll need to buy this fine book, to find out what actually happened!
Author, Marko Kitti, presents this story in a lively, well written, and engaging style. There are some great touches, and his presentation truly succeeds in involving you! “For You, Dear Reader”
Yet another feature of this fine, 150 page book, are the fabulous black and white, cool illustrations, which I feel adds yet another dimension, in terms of realism. I have absolutely, no hesitation in recommending this book for an age range of around eight to twelve years. I also believe that this book could even appeal to much younger children, in respect of bedtime reading, with a parent, guardian, or even an older child.
The good news does not end here! I understand, that author, Marko Kitti, is soon going to release Book Two, “Jesper Jinx and the Sneezing Season” - in the near future! I can't wait to read it!
This book provides an abundance of entertainment and fun, in Jesper's home, and in particular, at Jesper's Junior School! Every good book needs some great characters, and Jesper Jinx certainly has plenty of those! His ill-tempered and clumsy, older sister Melinda, becomes a revenge target, when she makes the mistake of threatening to tell everyone about Jesper's crush on Chloe!
There is one special character that I really enjoyed, and that is Snowy, the white cat, who has an attitude! This book includes a story that's told by Snowy, the white cat, and it's called “The Great Escape From The Kitchen!” - it's good fun too!
Another story I really liked is called “Jesper Jinx and the Spanish Shenanigans.” A new pupil arrives at Jesper's school, and his name's Jose Maria, and he's from Spain. He's even got a moustache! And a ferret called Fernando! Needless to say, Jesper and his best friend, Oliver Oliverson, encourage Jose Maria to step-out-of-line! And Jesper's teacher, the lanky Miss Parrot, becomes the target for several classroom and playground antics! However, this story ends in a shocking revelation! But, sorry! You'll need to buy this fine book, to find out what actually happened!
Author, Marko Kitti, presents this story in a lively, well written, and engaging style. There are some great touches, and his presentation truly succeeds in involving you! “For You, Dear Reader”
Yet another feature of this fine, 150 page book, are the fabulous black and white, cool illustrations, which I feel adds yet another dimension, in terms of realism. I have absolutely, no hesitation in recommending this book for an age range of around eight to twelve years. I also believe that this book could even appeal to much younger children, in respect of bedtime reading, with a parent, guardian, or even an older child.
The good news does not end here! I understand, that author, Marko Kitti, is soon going to release Book Two, “Jesper Jinx and the Sneezing Season” - in the near future! I can't wait to read it!
June 4, 2014
Life in Puffington Hill will never be dull when the disastrous, but likable Jesper Jinx is around!
Jesper Jinx is known as the boredom breaker. He home tricks and pranks are great fun, some involving his ill-tempered older sister, Melinda, and his charming and wise cat Snowy.
Jesper's tricks and pranks continue at Puffington School, where he is joined by his best pal Oliver Oliverson. This story brings in a new Spanish boy, with a mustache, named Jose Maria. Jesper and Oliver teach Jose some of their best school tricks!
The antics have an unexpected ending, when Jesper's lanky school teacher, Miss Parrot, makes a big announcement! You'll have to read this fast paced, lively, and funny book, to find out the surprise ending!
The author Marko Kitti, includes some very good illustrations, that adds even more realism, to this very fine book. I highly recommend this book. I'm already looking forward to Book 2, "Jesper Jinx and the Sneezing Season,” which is coming out soon!
I won a paperback copy of this fabulous book, which is 149 pages, through a Goodreads Giveaway.
In return, I have been very happy to leave an honest review.
Little Wiltshire.
Jesper Jinx is known as the boredom breaker. He home tricks and pranks are great fun, some involving his ill-tempered older sister, Melinda, and his charming and wise cat Snowy.
Jesper's tricks and pranks continue at Puffington School, where he is joined by his best pal Oliver Oliverson. This story brings in a new Spanish boy, with a mustache, named Jose Maria. Jesper and Oliver teach Jose some of their best school tricks!
The antics have an unexpected ending, when Jesper's lanky school teacher, Miss Parrot, makes a big announcement! You'll have to read this fast paced, lively, and funny book, to find out the surprise ending!
The author Marko Kitti, includes some very good illustrations, that adds even more realism, to this very fine book. I highly recommend this book. I'm already looking forward to Book 2, "Jesper Jinx and the Sneezing Season,” which is coming out soon!
I won a paperback copy of this fabulous book, which is 149 pages, through a Goodreads Giveaway.
In return, I have been very happy to leave an honest review.
Little Wiltshire.
May 8, 2014
This is one quirky, fun-filled book which will remind you of your childhood and of reading books by Roald Dahl. The story is about Jesper, an eleven year old boy who seems to be stuck with the worst luck ever. His main interest is in doing something to break the boredom. In this book, Jesper manages to turn the cat red and teach the new teacher some of his prized tricks. His relation with his sister and parents is touched upon ever so subtly and we are also introduced to his best friend Oliver.
The story is written in a narrative style and the reader will get the feeling that the author is talking only to them specifically. The author describes how he met Jesper and makes us sign an agreement to never reveal the existence of this book to him. The book was supposed to have been top secret after all.
The tricks that Jesper pulls off and the bad luck that follows justify why he is called Jesper Jinx. He is truly a character that all youngsters will love and even grownups will enjoy. A wonderful middle grade fiction, this book is worth a read.
The story is written in a narrative style and the reader will get the feeling that the author is talking only to them specifically. The author describes how he met Jesper and makes us sign an agreement to never reveal the existence of this book to him. The book was supposed to have been top secret after all.
The tricks that Jesper pulls off and the bad luck that follows justify why he is called Jesper Jinx. He is truly a character that all youngsters will love and even grownups will enjoy. A wonderful middle grade fiction, this book is worth a read.
May 13, 2014
Jesper Jinx is an 11 year old who has an uncanny knack for getting into trouble. His elaborate schemes often derail at the last minute. For instance, he wants to play a prank on his older sister and sneaks mustard, curry sauce and olive oil into her soda can, but their father drinks it. Or, Jesper accidentally "paints" the white family cat red. There's plenty more zany adventures at school as well.
The tone of this book is engaging and humorous. The author addresses the reader directly, and I enjoyed that. I also enjoyed the whimsical illustrations that accompany the text. At about 140 pages, it is a fun read that will keep you laughing. I'd say it's for ages 8 & up.
I was impressed to learn that the author/illustrator, Marko Kitti, was born in Finland and has already had a successful career as a YA writer in Finland. Jesper Jinx is his first book in English. He also is already hard at work on a sequel.
The tone of this book is engaging and humorous. The author addresses the reader directly, and I enjoyed that. I also enjoyed the whimsical illustrations that accompany the text. At about 140 pages, it is a fun read that will keep you laughing. I'd say it's for ages 8 & up.
I was impressed to learn that the author/illustrator, Marko Kitti, was born in Finland and has already had a successful career as a YA writer in Finland. Jesper Jinx is his first book in English. He also is already hard at work on a sequel.
October 12, 2014
I didn't know what to expect when I downloaded my free copy of Jesper Jinx to my Kindle. Marko Kitti tells the fun story of Jesper, a typical 11 year old boy who does typical 11 year old boy things. The story takes place in England which I appreciated especially when familiar words were used that our English friends use - like "hoovering" for vacuuming.
Jesper tells us his story by way of an author who lives down his street. We are sworn to secrecy first, but once we sign on the dotted line to keep his stories secret, we find out why Jesper is known as Jesper Jinx. How does a cat go red? Why does his classmate have a moustache? And everyone who went to school could relate to his teacher Miss Parrot!
This book made me smile and chuckle, and I am an adult. While reading it, I couldn't help to think that this is a great book for boys. Even reluctant readers would be hard-pressed to stop reading about Jesper once they started!
Jesper tells us his story by way of an author who lives down his street. We are sworn to secrecy first, but once we sign on the dotted line to keep his stories secret, we find out why Jesper is known as Jesper Jinx. How does a cat go red? Why does his classmate have a moustache? And everyone who went to school could relate to his teacher Miss Parrot!
This book made me smile and chuckle, and I am an adult. While reading it, I couldn't help to think that this is a great book for boys. Even reluctant readers would be hard-pressed to stop reading about Jesper once they started!
January 6, 2020
Puffington Hill, England. Guaraná Antarctica was Melinda’s (older sister) favorite soft drink.
She loved to tease Jesper Jinx (11) because their parents wouldn’t let him drink it.
It just so happened he spiked her drink. Melinda however had snuck in Jesper room & rad his diary.
It seems he had a crush on a girl named Chloe.
Dinner time. Mum & Dad started up the evening conversation.
Every Sunday was a designated cleaning day at Jesper’s household.
Jesper had been nominated to feed/take care of Snowy the family cat. Well mum’s anyway.
Snowy had gotten into Jesper’s watercolor paints.
How would he get the red color out of her fur?
Snowy had suddenly vanished & couldn’t be found. The search was on.
Mr. & Mrs. Brown & their bossy daughter Bella Brown were coming over for dinner.
Puffington Hill Jr. HS. Ms. Parrot “Lanky” Jesper’s history teacher was introducing a new temporary Spanish student José Maria.
At lunch time Oliver Oliverson (classmate/BMF) & Jesper sat with José Maria (11). He was from Spain.
What did they later find out about José Maria?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great colored pictures & proper font & writing style. A very well written children’s (MS age) family adventure story book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great children’s family adventure movie, an animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. It was kind of cheesy so I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; BookSends; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
She loved to tease Jesper Jinx (11) because their parents wouldn’t let him drink it.
It just so happened he spiked her drink. Melinda however had snuck in Jesper room & rad his diary.
It seems he had a crush on a girl named Chloe.
Dinner time. Mum & Dad started up the evening conversation.
Every Sunday was a designated cleaning day at Jesper’s household.
Jesper had been nominated to feed/take care of Snowy the family cat. Well mum’s anyway.
Snowy had gotten into Jesper’s watercolor paints.
How would he get the red color out of her fur?
Snowy had suddenly vanished & couldn’t be found. The search was on.
Mr. & Mrs. Brown & their bossy daughter Bella Brown were coming over for dinner.
Puffington Hill Jr. HS. Ms. Parrot “Lanky” Jesper’s history teacher was introducing a new temporary Spanish student José Maria.
At lunch time Oliver Oliverson (classmate/BMF) & Jesper sat with José Maria (11). He was from Spain.
What did they later find out about José Maria?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great colored pictures & proper font & writing style. A very well written children’s (MS age) family adventure story book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great children’s family adventure movie, an animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. It was kind of cheesy so I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; BookSends; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
February 23, 2017
Who wouldn’t love the stories about Jesper Jinx, the 11-year-old boy in search of the ultimate boredom breaker? His father, mother and sister fear for every move Jesper makes as he tends to .. jinx things! Now an author has come to live in the neighbourhood and, annoyed at Jesper calling him ‘a professional liar’ he challenges Jesper to tell him a true story. Little did the author know that he would hear incredible stories. Read them and decide for yourself: is Jesper a hideous daredevil or the coolest kid you have ever met?
Storyline
Have I ever told you about Jesper Jinx?? The boy who lives with his mum and dad, elder sister and the beautiful white cat in a lovely home in Puffington Hill on the south coast of England?? What is that I hear? BORING – All right, all right! Don’t need to shout! What if I told you that Jinx is his special name because everything Jesper touches is jinxed? That he has found the ultimate “boredom breaker“? Ha, now you are interested! Before you come any closer, there is a Secrecy Agreement you need to sign. Yes, really! Jesper is anxious his mum and dad, sister, neighbours well .. almost everyone living near to him will not hear about these stories! Are you with me still? Ok, then the time is there for you to enter Jesper’s world! Follow me …
Jesper Jinx and the Colourful Cat
It is a Sunday, a day Jesper is not too fond of as there is nothing much to do but hang around: his father is reading the paper and wants to be left alone, his sister Melinda stays in bed forever and his mother is busy hoovering. Did I tell you Jesper has a cat? A lovely white cat called Snowy because of her white fur. Snowy is Jesper’s cat when chores need to be done but his mother’s when it’s showtime and Snowy has to make a special appearance! What to do when you are a bored boy that jinxes everything, left in the kitchen with a pile of laundry, a bowl of red water and a snow-white cat?
Jesper Jinx and the Spanish Shenanigans
Jesper’s school is Puffington Hill Junior School and it would be a very boring if not for Jesper’s best friend Oliver. Their teacher is Miss Parrot – as you would guess from her name she repeats much of what you say! Today Miss Parrot looks different and Jesper and Oliver are dying to find out what is going on. Then there is something even more interesting: dark-haired José Maria with his short figure and “pair of big chocolate-brown eyes” is staying in their class! Do you know that José has a moustache? No wonder all the girls faint! Jesper knows something is not right! Let’s find out, shall we?
My Thoughts
The informal tone the author uses plus the fact that he directly addresses the reader in his book make it a fun read. Then there is the Secrecy Agreement which adds to the mystery! Jesper is an outgoing boy who literally jinxes everything he does. Sometimes deliberately, sometimes inadvertently. Whichever way it starts, it always ends up with a disaster! I loved reading about the naughty boy dreading boredom – hence his invention of boredom breakers! As you witness the story unfolding before your eyes, you cannot but smile witnessing the story unfold before your eyes – even though you are aware of what will follow! Perfect for younger middle-grade readers aged 7-11. To read the Jesper Jinx stories to children or to watch them read it – an absolute pleasure!
Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/jesper...
Storyline
Have I ever told you about Jesper Jinx?? The boy who lives with his mum and dad, elder sister and the beautiful white cat in a lovely home in Puffington Hill on the south coast of England?? What is that I hear? BORING – All right, all right! Don’t need to shout! What if I told you that Jinx is his special name because everything Jesper touches is jinxed? That he has found the ultimate “boredom breaker“? Ha, now you are interested! Before you come any closer, there is a Secrecy Agreement you need to sign. Yes, really! Jesper is anxious his mum and dad, sister, neighbours well .. almost everyone living near to him will not hear about these stories! Are you with me still? Ok, then the time is there for you to enter Jesper’s world! Follow me …
Jesper Jinx and the Colourful Cat
It is a Sunday, a day Jesper is not too fond of as there is nothing much to do but hang around: his father is reading the paper and wants to be left alone, his sister Melinda stays in bed forever and his mother is busy hoovering. Did I tell you Jesper has a cat? A lovely white cat called Snowy because of her white fur. Snowy is Jesper’s cat when chores need to be done but his mother’s when it’s showtime and Snowy has to make a special appearance! What to do when you are a bored boy that jinxes everything, left in the kitchen with a pile of laundry, a bowl of red water and a snow-white cat?
Jesper Jinx and the Spanish Shenanigans
Jesper’s school is Puffington Hill Junior School and it would be a very boring if not for Jesper’s best friend Oliver. Their teacher is Miss Parrot – as you would guess from her name she repeats much of what you say! Today Miss Parrot looks different and Jesper and Oliver are dying to find out what is going on. Then there is something even more interesting: dark-haired José Maria with his short figure and “pair of big chocolate-brown eyes” is staying in their class! Do you know that José has a moustache? No wonder all the girls faint! Jesper knows something is not right! Let’s find out, shall we?
My Thoughts
The informal tone the author uses plus the fact that he directly addresses the reader in his book make it a fun read. Then there is the Secrecy Agreement which adds to the mystery! Jesper is an outgoing boy who literally jinxes everything he does. Sometimes deliberately, sometimes inadvertently. Whichever way it starts, it always ends up with a disaster! I loved reading about the naughty boy dreading boredom – hence his invention of boredom breakers! As you witness the story unfolding before your eyes, you cannot but smile witnessing the story unfold before your eyes – even though you are aware of what will follow! Perfect for younger middle-grade readers aged 7-11. To read the Jesper Jinx stories to children or to watch them read it – an absolute pleasure!
Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/jesper...
August 11, 2017
It's funny, that's all I can say.
February 15, 2018
"Książka była niesamowita. Zdobywa 100 tysięcy punktów. Przygoda z napojem była bardzo śmieszna. Historyjka na koniec o pająku była bardzo fajna. Super było też jak Jose Maria zrobił żart Leszkowi i Oliwierowi. Książka ta zdobywa tyle punktow bo jest bardzo śmieszna. Pierwsza część była naprawdę fajna tak jak szósta część." - tak ocenia tę książkę sześciolatek.
March 27, 2017
This book is the first in a series about Jesper Jinx, who is always getting himself in trouble. Each section in this short book covers a different misadventure Jesper finds himself involved in. Whenever things get too boring, Jesper kicks off a “boredom breaker,” which always ends up getting him and the people around him into some sort of shenanigans. Whether he is dying the cat’s fur red or playing pranks on his teacher, Jesper always finds a way of making life interesting. The story is cute, and the writing style is perfect for young kids.
Some of the scenarios Jesper encounters are a bit unbelievable, so I think this series is best suited to small children. They will be sure to love Jesper’s crazy adventures, which can liven up even the most boring rainy day at home.
Read the full review here: http://newberyandbeyond.com/review-co...
*Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
Some of the scenarios Jesper encounters are a bit unbelievable, so I think this series is best suited to small children. They will be sure to love Jesper’s crazy adventures, which can liven up even the most boring rainy day at home.
Read the full review here: http://newberyandbeyond.com/review-co...
*Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
September 24, 2015
This is the book I’m going to set aside for that time when my sister has a kid and I, as its favorite aunt, will take upon the onus of completely screwing it up. Because Jesper Jinx and his Jinx-y book is filled with ideas that every kid will love and every parent’s nightmares are made of. It looks like I have found my weapon of sisterly-destruction! MUWAHAHAHA!!!
Jesper Jinx is a lovely boy of 11 who is like every other boy of 11, but with an extra dose of that insane energy and an extra-extra dose of that insane insanity. He is full of ideas that start with “what’s the harm in having a little fun?” and end with…well, usually with him running away as fast as he can from the scene of crime. Never the one to put up with boredom or with unsated curiosity, he fills up the pages of this book with innovations and incidents and accidents that will leave you in splits.
Marko Kitti is at his best when he is writing in the author’s voice directly interacting with the reader. That is his greatest strength- his ability as a live story teller who can actively drag you into the story. At the beginning of the book, you can tell that he struggles with the switch from that natural voice to one where he is interacting with Jesper rather than with the reader. But, once that slightly awkward transition is past, he is in his element again when he starts narrating Jesper’s antic, author-to-reader.
The book does have a few grammatical glitches. But, on the whole, the Finnish author’s editing team has done a good job. The characters came across as adorably ridiculous and the illustrations that accompanied were beautifully appropriate and made the experience all the more special.
Technicalities aside, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It had been some time since I read a book which didn’t have the world coming to an end, character deaths and a whole lot of seriousness (I’m not talking about fiction. This is what my medical textbooks are full of.) So, this book, for me, was like a vacation where I did nothing but sit on the beach and sip iced teas (the long island variety ;-D).
With Boredom breakers, Snowy the cat, Moustaches with deep voices…this book has all the elements that will delight not only the little one in front of you, but also the little one inside of you that tends to get lost in the throes of growing up.
For complete reviews and more reviews, visit my blog at:
https://overratedsensibilities.wordpr...
Jesper Jinx is a lovely boy of 11 who is like every other boy of 11, but with an extra dose of that insane energy and an extra-extra dose of that insane insanity. He is full of ideas that start with “what’s the harm in having a little fun?” and end with…well, usually with him running away as fast as he can from the scene of crime. Never the one to put up with boredom or with unsated curiosity, he fills up the pages of this book with innovations and incidents and accidents that will leave you in splits.
Marko Kitti is at his best when he is writing in the author’s voice directly interacting with the reader. That is his greatest strength- his ability as a live story teller who can actively drag you into the story. At the beginning of the book, you can tell that he struggles with the switch from that natural voice to one where he is interacting with Jesper rather than with the reader. But, once that slightly awkward transition is past, he is in his element again when he starts narrating Jesper’s antic, author-to-reader.
The book does have a few grammatical glitches. But, on the whole, the Finnish author’s editing team has done a good job. The characters came across as adorably ridiculous and the illustrations that accompanied were beautifully appropriate and made the experience all the more special.
Technicalities aside, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It had been some time since I read a book which didn’t have the world coming to an end, character deaths and a whole lot of seriousness (I’m not talking about fiction. This is what my medical textbooks are full of.) So, this book, for me, was like a vacation where I did nothing but sit on the beach and sip iced teas (the long island variety ;-D).
With Boredom breakers, Snowy the cat, Moustaches with deep voices…this book has all the elements that will delight not only the little one in front of you, but also the little one inside of you that tends to get lost in the throes of growing up.
For complete reviews and more reviews, visit my blog at:
https://overratedsensibilities.wordpr...
August 10, 2014
Positive Points
This is a very short book (about a third of a typical MG novel), but I wish it had been longer! I got totally hooked from the very start. Each chapter is a mini-story, loosely linked to the previous one, kind of like Sherlock Holmes mysteries.
The POV shifts from Jesper Jinx in the first chapter, to the narrator from the second chapter (where he meets Jesper) until the end. This reminded me of A Series of Unfortunate Events, where the narrator sometimes addresses the reader directly and plays a minor part in the story, but is mainly just relating the main character's adventures. The POV shifts again briefly, somewhere in the middle, to Snowy the Cat relating how he escaped from the kitchen in the previous chapter. This book is full of surprises!
Negative Points
In the first chapter, the dialogue lines were not capitalized when they were part of a sentence, which I found distracting. For example: "Jesper looked oddly thoughtful when he asked, 'what kind of children's books do you write?'" There was a bit of telling at times, and repeated phrases such as "After all" that I would have suggested eliminating if I had edited his book. But this is all part of the author's writing style and didn't stop me from reading this otherwise excellent book.
What makes this book unique
Jesper's "boredom breakers" made me laugh a lot. And the illustrations sprinkled through the book highlight the story and make it easier for young readers to picture each scene.
Overall Impression
I believe this book would appeal to reluctant readers in particular: short, easy to read, action right from the start, and such a unique, well-developed trouble maker ... I mean, main character.
This is a very short book (about a third of a typical MG novel), but I wish it had been longer! I got totally hooked from the very start. Each chapter is a mini-story, loosely linked to the previous one, kind of like Sherlock Holmes mysteries.
The POV shifts from Jesper Jinx in the first chapter, to the narrator from the second chapter (where he meets Jesper) until the end. This reminded me of A Series of Unfortunate Events, where the narrator sometimes addresses the reader directly and plays a minor part in the story, but is mainly just relating the main character's adventures. The POV shifts again briefly, somewhere in the middle, to Snowy the Cat relating how he escaped from the kitchen in the previous chapter. This book is full of surprises!
Negative Points
In the first chapter, the dialogue lines were not capitalized when they were part of a sentence, which I found distracting. For example: "Jesper looked oddly thoughtful when he asked, 'what kind of children's books do you write?'" There was a bit of telling at times, and repeated phrases such as "After all" that I would have suggested eliminating if I had edited his book. But this is all part of the author's writing style and didn't stop me from reading this otherwise excellent book.
What makes this book unique
Jesper's "boredom breakers" made me laugh a lot. And the illustrations sprinkled through the book highlight the story and make it easier for young readers to picture each scene.
Overall Impression
I believe this book would appeal to reluctant readers in particular: short, easy to read, action right from the start, and such a unique, well-developed trouble maker ... I mean, main character.
March 8, 2015
Rating: 3.5 stars
When I was offered Jesper Jinx as an audiobook to review I did not hesitate in saying yes. I already knew I like the book, so getting to listen to it only added another aspect to this story, leaving me wanting to know what it would sound like.
Jesper Jinx is only 1 hour and 17 minutes long, so it didn't take too long to make my way through this book. The story itself was just as funny as I remember it to be, and I was also surprised I had forgotten a few things that happened, so it was almost like listening to a new book.
One little thing that I really liked was the transfer from physical book to audio. The physical book has a page to sign for a confidentiality agreement, but the audio still has this option, only change to a voice recognition that the author supposedly records on tier end. I think this would really appeal to children listening to this book and make them interact with the book.
Narration
I was initially unsure about the narration. I don't really know who the narrator, Peter Black, was when I went into this book, and it did take me a while to actually warm up to his reading style. There were a few parts that I think could have done with a longer pause, or parts that felt like the pause was too long or just didn't fit into the sentence itself.
Final Verdict
Going into Jesper Jinx I knew I would enjoy the story itself, but it took me a while to warm up to the narration, and with the book being so small, by the time I warmed up to him the book was nearly over. This is the only reason why I didn't give Jesper Jinx four stars.
Overall though, Jesper Jinx was an enjoyable book and is perfect for small journeys with children.
When I was offered Jesper Jinx as an audiobook to review I did not hesitate in saying yes. I already knew I like the book, so getting to listen to it only added another aspect to this story, leaving me wanting to know what it would sound like.
Jesper Jinx is only 1 hour and 17 minutes long, so it didn't take too long to make my way through this book. The story itself was just as funny as I remember it to be, and I was also surprised I had forgotten a few things that happened, so it was almost like listening to a new book.
One little thing that I really liked was the transfer from physical book to audio. The physical book has a page to sign for a confidentiality agreement, but the audio still has this option, only change to a voice recognition that the author supposedly records on tier end. I think this would really appeal to children listening to this book and make them interact with the book.
Narration
I was initially unsure about the narration. I don't really know who the narrator, Peter Black, was when I went into this book, and it did take me a while to actually warm up to his reading style. There were a few parts that I think could have done with a longer pause, or parts that felt like the pause was too long or just didn't fit into the sentence itself.
Final Verdict
Going into Jesper Jinx I knew I would enjoy the story itself, but it took me a while to warm up to the narration, and with the book being so small, by the time I warmed up to him the book was nearly over. This is the only reason why I didn't give Jesper Jinx four stars.
Overall though, Jesper Jinx was an enjoyable book and is perfect for small journeys with children.
July 10, 2016
Jesper Jinx is the first book in the Jesper Jinx series of children’s books written by Finnish author Marko Kitti. This book is about Jesper, his family, sibling rivalry, his friends, school and his pranks.
Jesper is 11 years old and is a born prankster with a vivid imagination, although his pranks do have a tendency to backfire. He hates being bored and will do whatever possible to relieve his boredom which tends to involve bothering his sister or with the help of his best friend, Oliver, playing pranks on their teachers at school. He lives with his Mum, Dad, 12 year old sister Melinda and Snowy the cat in Puffington Hill on the South Coast of England.
This first book in the series is made up of stories involving Jesper’s pranks that inevitably go wrong. It features some great characters (my personal favourite being the headteacher, Mr Llawandorder, I love the name which is perfect for a headteacher). In this book we have the stories of the energy drink that isn’t, how Snowy the cat accidently got painted red, how Snowy escaped the clutches of Jesper from the kitchen (as told by Snowy), Jesper and the new Spanish addition to his school and Jesper’s nighty-night tale.
Overall I found Jesper Jinx to be humorous and easy to read with its short stories that children will love (especially their slightly naughtier sides). Children will be drawn into the stories, especially as before reading it they have to sign a Secrecy Agreement as Jesper is not allowed to know about the existence of this book!
Jesper Jinx is a collection of short, funny stories that children from 7 to adults of 100 will enjoy and will be able to relate to. What child has never pulled a prank of some sort?
A great collection of stories to spark a child’s interest in reading.
Jesper is 11 years old and is a born prankster with a vivid imagination, although his pranks do have a tendency to backfire. He hates being bored and will do whatever possible to relieve his boredom which tends to involve bothering his sister or with the help of his best friend, Oliver, playing pranks on their teachers at school. He lives with his Mum, Dad, 12 year old sister Melinda and Snowy the cat in Puffington Hill on the South Coast of England.
This first book in the series is made up of stories involving Jesper’s pranks that inevitably go wrong. It features some great characters (my personal favourite being the headteacher, Mr Llawandorder, I love the name which is perfect for a headteacher). In this book we have the stories of the energy drink that isn’t, how Snowy the cat accidently got painted red, how Snowy escaped the clutches of Jesper from the kitchen (as told by Snowy), Jesper and the new Spanish addition to his school and Jesper’s nighty-night tale.
Overall I found Jesper Jinx to be humorous and easy to read with its short stories that children will love (especially their slightly naughtier sides). Children will be drawn into the stories, especially as before reading it they have to sign a Secrecy Agreement as Jesper is not allowed to know about the existence of this book!
Jesper Jinx is a collection of short, funny stories that children from 7 to adults of 100 will enjoy and will be able to relate to. What child has never pulled a prank of some sort?
A great collection of stories to spark a child’s interest in reading.
September 2, 2014
Jesper Jinx may be one of the unluckiest (or maybe the luckiest?) kids in Puffington Hill, England. Everything he does somehow comes out hilariously messed up. When Jesper accidentally (and literally) bumps into a children’s books author who had rented a nearby house, Jesper makes the author promise to write his real-life stories, as long as he doesn’t share it with anybody else. The author was not true to his word, well, as long as the reader promises not to tell Jesper! He shares 3 short stories – each with a prank that Jesper does. This includes staining the white cat red, and swapping his sister’s favorite drink out for a concoction that is undeniably foul.
This book, all in all, is hilarious. I love that the author is a character that interacts with the reader through notes. That provides a bit of humor right there. Then you add in all of Jesper’s kooky actions and you get a ton of laughs. I like the fact that the reader can be involved in the story, it feels like the author is talking to you. The illustrations remind me of the kind in most of Roald Dahl’s books. I like that touch. It provides a nice feeling that draws you into the story. Jesper is a nice kid who likes to do pranks and practical jokes. It’s not his fault that they normally backfire on him. He’s just a normal kid trying to “break the boredom”. The book was a quick read for me at 150 pages with illustrations, but it is meant for younger kids so the reading level is just right for 8+ or young advanced readers. I am looking forward to reading more of Mr. Kitti’s work.
*NOTE* I got a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
This book, all in all, is hilarious. I love that the author is a character that interacts with the reader through notes. That provides a bit of humor right there. Then you add in all of Jesper’s kooky actions and you get a ton of laughs. I like the fact that the reader can be involved in the story, it feels like the author is talking to you. The illustrations remind me of the kind in most of Roald Dahl’s books. I like that touch. It provides a nice feeling that draws you into the story. Jesper is a nice kid who likes to do pranks and practical jokes. It’s not his fault that they normally backfire on him. He’s just a normal kid trying to “break the boredom”. The book was a quick read for me at 150 pages with illustrations, but it is meant for younger kids so the reading level is just right for 8+ or young advanced readers. I am looking forward to reading more of Mr. Kitti’s work.
*NOTE* I got a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
May 18, 2014
Jesper Jinx is your bored 11 year old; he is into ‘boredom breakers’, to get at his sister for snooping into his diary, or just because he’s too bored. Jesper lives in Puffington Hill with his sister, parents and cat; of his parents we know that his mother hoovers the house and does the washing while his father is into football; his cat is milky white, except when Jesper pours red watercolours all over him – accidentally. At school his teacher is Miss Parrot who repeats everything she hears. I laughed outloud when he mistook his future teacher (replacing Miss Parrot) – one José Maria de Jesús Pedro Hernández Gutiérrez – for a school mate or even a dwarf. The essence of Jesper’s being seems to be a naughtiness bred by boredom that leads him into mischief that ultimately brings his own downfall. The only exception to this ill fortune is when Jesper accidentally bumps into the author, Marko Kitti, as he runs round a news agent’s corner (yes, Puffington Hill is clearly Eastborne, or perhaps that part of it that climbs into a hillside?), they strike a conversation and very quickly Jesper plies Marko into writing a book about him, but he must swear not to publish it. One wonders why? He doesn’t want his mom and dad to know about his doings or they’ll have him grounded! So Marko makes his readers swear not to tell Jesper that they are reading his book, and makes them sign a legal declaration. This will – ironically - make Jesper (in)famous no doubt.
June 17, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Ten Second Synopsis:
When eleven year old Jesper gets bored, anything is fair game....including the unsuspecting family cat.
Jesper Jinx is the kind of book that will have kids aged about 7 and up rolling in the aisles as they read about Jesper’s wildly chaotic adventures. The book is a short read with a great formatting balance between text and illustrations and will have the young ones (especially boys, methinks) turning the pages until they’ve uncovered the whole sorry tale of Jesper’s antics. The story is packed full of kid friendly humour, like playing pranks on one’s teacher, and is really all about innocent fun.
Kitti’s style is very much like a combination of Roald Dahl and David Walliams, so if you’ve read either of those two authors (and really, who hasn’t?!) you’ll know exactly what you’re in for here. There’s plenty of silliness and unexpected plot twists that plunge Jesper into even more trouble than before.
Admittedly, this is one of those books for kids that really is pitched to be enjoyed most by kids in the target age range, rather than one that adults will get a lot out of too. Having said that, it really does have all the makings of an engaging, fun, funny and accessible entry point into the early chapter book format and as such, would be perfect for reluctant readers, or as a “just for the fun of it” classroom read-aloud.
Recommended.
Ten Second Synopsis:
When eleven year old Jesper gets bored, anything is fair game....including the unsuspecting family cat.
Jesper Jinx is the kind of book that will have kids aged about 7 and up rolling in the aisles as they read about Jesper’s wildly chaotic adventures. The book is a short read with a great formatting balance between text and illustrations and will have the young ones (especially boys, methinks) turning the pages until they’ve uncovered the whole sorry tale of Jesper’s antics. The story is packed full of kid friendly humour, like playing pranks on one’s teacher, and is really all about innocent fun.
Kitti’s style is very much like a combination of Roald Dahl and David Walliams, so if you’ve read either of those two authors (and really, who hasn’t?!) you’ll know exactly what you’re in for here. There’s plenty of silliness and unexpected plot twists that plunge Jesper into even more trouble than before.
Admittedly, this is one of those books for kids that really is pitched to be enjoyed most by kids in the target age range, rather than one that adults will get a lot out of too. Having said that, it really does have all the makings of an engaging, fun, funny and accessible entry point into the early chapter book format and as such, would be perfect for reluctant readers, or as a “just for the fun of it” classroom read-aloud.
Recommended.
February 8, 2016
Jesper seems to get into trouble pretty effortlessly; in fact I think he goes looking for trouble. He is a very naughty boy and is always in the middle of something and trying to do funny things as well.
This is a story about the adventures this boy Jesper has, as he goes about his day. He finds trouble even where there is none. I think trouble likes to find him. He ensures his sister always know she has a brother who keeps trying to even the score with her.
For an 11 year old he is quite a handful; making no effort to sober down. This is the first book of the series of books and I think each of them is going to be as delightful as the next. I just hope Jesper does not get totally out of hand, he quit the riot!
The language is simple and quite right for children and flows with the story and makes the narration fun. The illustrations are the only thing I found a bit crude and rough. They made Jesper and everyone else look a bit scruffy, a little smoothening could be done but I am not too sure, this could be a style of drawing I might not be aware of. The pictures do convey the details and story well.
The twist in the plot with the friend with the moustache was so hilarious as was their fluffy white cat. I loved the stories and Jesper’s ingenuity. That boy has a lot of guts.
I look forward to reading more of his adventures and mischief.
(I received a copy of the book from the author, this is my unbiased review.)
This is a story about the adventures this boy Jesper has, as he goes about his day. He finds trouble even where there is none. I think trouble likes to find him. He ensures his sister always know she has a brother who keeps trying to even the score with her.
For an 11 year old he is quite a handful; making no effort to sober down. This is the first book of the series of books and I think each of them is going to be as delightful as the next. I just hope Jesper does not get totally out of hand, he quit the riot!
The language is simple and quite right for children and flows with the story and makes the narration fun. The illustrations are the only thing I found a bit crude and rough. They made Jesper and everyone else look a bit scruffy, a little smoothening could be done but I am not too sure, this could be a style of drawing I might not be aware of. The pictures do convey the details and story well.
The twist in the plot with the friend with the moustache was so hilarious as was their fluffy white cat. I loved the stories and Jesper’s ingenuity. That boy has a lot of guts.
I look forward to reading more of his adventures and mischief.
(I received a copy of the book from the author, this is my unbiased review.)
August 27, 2016
This book was entered and was a finalist in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Jesper Jinx
Author: Marko Kitti
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 27
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Style: 9/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 10/10
Of the 27 readers:
26 would read another book by this author.
27 thought the cover was good or excellent.
17 thought the characters were the best part of the book.
10 liked the plot the best.
2 (all boys) thought the first story was a little too slow.
26 liked the ending.
Readers’ Comments
‘This is such a funny story. I loved the cover too. It reminded me of a Roald Dahl book.’ Boy, aged 11
‘I liked that every chapter was a different adventure. The characters were funny too. I liked the story with the moustache best.’ Girl, aged 10
‘I loved the cat. The cat was fab!’ Girl, aged 10
‘This is perfect for a reluctant reader. Jinx is fun and his life is a mess of interesting and often hilarious disasters. The writing is style is tight and well edited, and the cover’s superb. I’d be happy to have it in the school library.’ Literacy-coordinator, aged 55
‘I liked the twists in the story and the letter fonts were good. I think this might be a good book for boys.’ Boy, aged 11.
‘Jinx is a bad boy. I liked him a lot.’ Boy, aged 11
‘Packed full of fun. A FINALIST and highly recommended for any 9 – 12 year old.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: Jesper Jinx
Author: Marko Kitti
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 27
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Style: 9/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 10/10
Of the 27 readers:
26 would read another book by this author.
27 thought the cover was good or excellent.
17 thought the characters were the best part of the book.
10 liked the plot the best.
2 (all boys) thought the first story was a little too slow.
26 liked the ending.
Readers’ Comments
‘This is such a funny story. I loved the cover too. It reminded me of a Roald Dahl book.’ Boy, aged 11
‘I liked that every chapter was a different adventure. The characters were funny too. I liked the story with the moustache best.’ Girl, aged 10
‘I loved the cat. The cat was fab!’ Girl, aged 10
‘This is perfect for a reluctant reader. Jinx is fun and his life is a mess of interesting and often hilarious disasters. The writing is style is tight and well edited, and the cover’s superb. I’d be happy to have it in the school library.’ Literacy-coordinator, aged 55
‘I liked the twists in the story and the letter fonts were good. I think this might be a good book for boys.’ Boy, aged 11.
‘Jinx is a bad boy. I liked him a lot.’ Boy, aged 11
‘Packed full of fun. A FINALIST and highly recommended for any 9 – 12 year old.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
November 22, 2015
Interesting series of short stories exploring the hijinks of eleven year old Jesper, who always seems to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Jesper has a twelve year old sister, who is often the victim of his shenanigans. Jesper introduces himself by relating an episode in which he sabotages his sister's favorite drink. Then the book switches to the voice of a children's book author and his narration of what happens when he literally bumps into Jesper. It turns out that Jesper wants that author to record his strange experiences. There is a catch; the author can never publish them or allow anyone else to read them. Do you think that author keeps his promise? Will you, as the reader, keep that secrecy promise?
The next two stories reveal what happens when the family's white cat meets Jesper's watercolors, and a mysterious new student from Spain becomes a willing protege. Jose Maria studies the pranks Jesper and his friend Oliver commit in their classroom. Middle school readers will love the pranks and the humorous dialogue as well as the clever names like Miss Parrot, Mr. Llawandorder and Mr. Playfair-Eales.
Simple line drawings are a bonus and add appeal to early advanced readers or reluctant readers. I think fans of the Wimpy Kid series will also enjoy this one. Recommended for middle school readers. Look forward to reading more of this series.
The next two stories reveal what happens when the family's white cat meets Jesper's watercolors, and a mysterious new student from Spain becomes a willing protege. Jose Maria studies the pranks Jesper and his friend Oliver commit in their classroom. Middle school readers will love the pranks and the humorous dialogue as well as the clever names like Miss Parrot, Mr. Llawandorder and Mr. Playfair-Eales.
Simple line drawings are a bonus and add appeal to early advanced readers or reluctant readers. I think fans of the Wimpy Kid series will also enjoy this one. Recommended for middle school readers. Look forward to reading more of this series.
June 21, 2014
I received a free book in exchange for an honest review. After reading it, I hesitated to let my nine year old son devour the pages. Why? Because he'll love it, and who knows what ideas he'll get in his head! Honestly, this book is wonderful and perfect for middle grade readers (especially those reluctant ones).
Jesper Jinx has an uncanny desire to keep life interesting--unfortunately, this always leads to disaster. Each chapter in the book is a short story of one of Jesper's hilarious adventures. Older sisters, teachers, and cats (and one chapter is told from the cat's view) beware! These chapters can be read independently and in any order, making it great for a quick read. And yes, there are illustrations, exactly the right amount. Combined with the short length (82 pages), kids will gladly grab this book and take a peek inside.
The characters are fun and entertaining to follow, especially since the narration style of the book pulls the reader in, including them in the story. The reader is told these exploits are secret (what kid doesn't like to keep something hidden?) and asked to make an agreement never to divulge any of it.
Summed up, this book is a fun-packed story kids will love.
Jesper Jinx has an uncanny desire to keep life interesting--unfortunately, this always leads to disaster. Each chapter in the book is a short story of one of Jesper's hilarious adventures. Older sisters, teachers, and cats (and one chapter is told from the cat's view) beware! These chapters can be read independently and in any order, making it great for a quick read. And yes, there are illustrations, exactly the right amount. Combined with the short length (82 pages), kids will gladly grab this book and take a peek inside.
The characters are fun and entertaining to follow, especially since the narration style of the book pulls the reader in, including them in the story. The reader is told these exploits are secret (what kid doesn't like to keep something hidden?) and asked to make an agreement never to divulge any of it.
Summed up, this book is a fun-packed story kids will love.
March 27, 2015
In this gorgeous story we meet Jesper Jinx, a highly energised eleven year old and his equally challenging sister, Melanie. Like most siblings there’s a bit of rivalry but these guys take it to the next level. Reading a secret diary and replacing drinks with obnoxious concoctions are just the first of many incidents in this book.
I liked the fact that we got straight into this tale. It moves along quickly and has enough twists and turns to engage its readers. I love the fact that you got to read what the other characters in the book thought about certain ‘events’. It’s a clever way of exploring the story which I’m sure the children will enjoy.
The illustrations worked well. They reflect the humour and vitality of the story. The author also played around with the fonts which add to the visual experience and energy of the book and its main character.
If you’re looking for a book for your middle grade reader then this will be a winner. It’s funny and action packed and I’m sure they’ll be delighted with Jesper’s antics and want to read the rest of the books in the series. I know I do!
I liked the fact that we got straight into this tale. It moves along quickly and has enough twists and turns to engage its readers. I love the fact that you got to read what the other characters in the book thought about certain ‘events’. It’s a clever way of exploring the story which I’m sure the children will enjoy.
The illustrations worked well. They reflect the humour and vitality of the story. The author also played around with the fonts which add to the visual experience and energy of the book and its main character.
If you’re looking for a book for your middle grade reader then this will be a winner. It’s funny and action packed and I’m sure they’ll be delighted with Jesper’s antics and want to read the rest of the books in the series. I know I do!
May 10, 2014
I was personally asked by the author to review a copy of this book that he so kindly provided me.
Jesper Jinx follows the story of an eleven-year-old boy who does what all eleven-year-old boys do--gets into a lot of trouble. Each chapter reads like a very short story about an adventure in Jesper's life. There is even a chapter from the cat's point-of-view! His favorite activities are "boredom breakers," which invariably lead to mischief and trouble.
From an annoying older sister to his best friend and partner-in-crime, the cast of characters is funny and most excellently collated for your convenience at the end of the book! Of note, one of the characters is a teacher affected with a medical condition that makes him very small and Kitti includes a (short!) dialogue that draws attention to the words we use to describe other people, particularly those who are different. I was elated to find this little gift in a middle-grade novel.
Overall it was a delightful read that I enjoyed and would happily pass on to the children in my life!
Jesper Jinx follows the story of an eleven-year-old boy who does what all eleven-year-old boys do--gets into a lot of trouble. Each chapter reads like a very short story about an adventure in Jesper's life. There is even a chapter from the cat's point-of-view! His favorite activities are "boredom breakers," which invariably lead to mischief and trouble.
From an annoying older sister to his best friend and partner-in-crime, the cast of characters is funny and most excellently collated for your convenience at the end of the book! Of note, one of the characters is a teacher affected with a medical condition that makes him very small and Kitti includes a (short!) dialogue that draws attention to the words we use to describe other people, particularly those who are different. I was elated to find this little gift in a middle-grade novel.
Overall it was a delightful read that I enjoyed and would happily pass on to the children in my life!
July 3, 2014
Synopsis: "Jesper Jinx is eleven, and probably the unluckiest person in all of Puffington Hill. Everything he touches seems to end up in sweet disaster. Hence his nickname 'Jinx'.
In this first book of Jesper Jinx's wonderfully wicked adventures you're going to meet Jesper's family and Snowy the Cat.
Also, there's a mysterious new classmate with a moustache. And it's up to Jesper to launch his famous Boredom Breaker.
As Jesper so frequently says, 'What harm would it do to have a little fun?"
My Review: This book was sent to me for an honest review.
This was such a fun book to read. It was full of funny quirks (including a secrecy agreement the reader must sign). While Jesper isn't always out looking for trouble, there is definitely a lot resulting in his antics. I love how the narrator/author incorporated himself into the story and it makes the book appealing to all readers. I think that particularly reluctant readers might find this book very enjoyable to read.
In this first book of Jesper Jinx's wonderfully wicked adventures you're going to meet Jesper's family and Snowy the Cat.
Also, there's a mysterious new classmate with a moustache. And it's up to Jesper to launch his famous Boredom Breaker.
As Jesper so frequently says, 'What harm would it do to have a little fun?"
My Review: This book was sent to me for an honest review.
This was such a fun book to read. It was full of funny quirks (including a secrecy agreement the reader must sign). While Jesper isn't always out looking for trouble, there is definitely a lot resulting in his antics. I love how the narrator/author incorporated himself into the story and it makes the book appealing to all readers. I think that particularly reluctant readers might find this book very enjoyable to read.
March 30, 2015
Full review at chapterfive.wix.com/chapter5
My Thoughts:
Jesper Jinx's the first book in the series which introduce us to Jesper and how is to be around him, his family and friends. As a teacher a really liked how the author tries engage all this short stories with the audience as the ultimate top secret, even make them sign an agreement, which will make it interesting in a classroom.
The characters are really easy to relate with. Jesper is the boy that get bored easily and is always making plans in his head to have fun but that always gets him a lot of troubles. And believe it or not he has a diary which was odd for me he he he I don't think the boys like it when I told them we'll be making a journal as a project. Melinda is the typical 12 years old girl in love of ONE DIRECTION & HARRY STYLES and of course look at his lil bro as her worst nightmare. Oh and snowy that cat will make you laugh and you will get it's POV in a little story.
My Thoughts:
Jesper Jinx's the first book in the series which introduce us to Jesper and how is to be around him, his family and friends. As a teacher a really liked how the author tries engage all this short stories with the audience as the ultimate top secret, even make them sign an agreement, which will make it interesting in a classroom.
The characters are really easy to relate with. Jesper is the boy that get bored easily and is always making plans in his head to have fun but that always gets him a lot of troubles. And believe it or not he has a diary which was odd for me he he he I don't think the boys like it when I told them we'll be making a journal as a project. Melinda is the typical 12 years old girl in love of ONE DIRECTION & HARRY STYLES and of course look at his lil bro as her worst nightmare. Oh and snowy that cat will make you laugh and you will get it's POV in a little story.
December 27, 2016
Between the harassment of the poor cat being put forth as funny, Jesper's enjoyment of seeing his sister trip and bang her head into the wall, and being mean to a teacher, I would call this kid a little bit sadistic, not "naughty" like the author describes him. There was also a scene where they think the cat is drowning in the safety locked washing machine and Jesper refers to it as a "boredom buster".
This book is supposed to be MG with an eleven year old MC, but he acts like he is six at the most. He even spends his time like a primary grade student. The silliness in this story isn't clever silliness like in Captain Underpants and Diary Of a Wimpy kid, it's just a random blathering of stupid. There really isn't any other word to describe it. I can usually find something redeeming about a book, but not for this one. I have the sequel and I am not going to waste my time reading it. The only reason I did not DNF this book was I needed it towards my challenge goal.
This book is supposed to be MG with an eleven year old MC, but he acts like he is six at the most. He even spends his time like a primary grade student. The silliness in this story isn't clever silliness like in Captain Underpants and Diary Of a Wimpy kid, it's just a random blathering of stupid. There really isn't any other word to describe it. I can usually find something redeeming about a book, but not for this one. I have the sequel and I am not going to waste my time reading it. The only reason I did not DNF this book was I needed it towards my challenge goal.
December 1, 2015
This was a fun read. From the beginning the book is written like someone is talking to you. It has a very informal tone that I think would easily appeal to the target age for this book.
I especially liked the “form” the author asks the reader to sign. It’s a cute idea that gives the book a secretive appeal. Great idea to draw in readers.
The collection of stories are humorous and fun. Each one will have you laughing out loud at the antics of Jesper. He is a crafty fella.
The stories are clever and witty. They have just the right amount of action, plot, description and pacing needed to grab a young kids attention.
To see my full review, check out my blog AlliesOpinions on wordpress.
I especially liked the “form” the author asks the reader to sign. It’s a cute idea that gives the book a secretive appeal. Great idea to draw in readers.
The collection of stories are humorous and fun. Each one will have you laughing out loud at the antics of Jesper. He is a crafty fella.
The stories are clever and witty. They have just the right amount of action, plot, description and pacing needed to grab a young kids attention.
To see my full review, check out my blog AlliesOpinions on wordpress.
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