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The Bizarre Baron Inventions #1
The Magnificent Flying Baron Estate
Waldo Baron awakes one morning to find his inventor parents have turned their house into a flying machine, and they intend to enter into a race across the country in the hopes of winning the $500 prize. His parents’ plans go astray when they are kidnapped by Rose Blackwood, the sister of notorious villain Benedict Blackwood, who intends to use the prize money to free her brother from prison. But Rose is not what she seems to be, and Waldo finds himself becoming friends with their kindly kidnapper as they race across the country in the magnificent flying Baron estate!
242 pages, Hardcover
First published May 16, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 4, 2017
Originally posted on: The Quirky Book Nerd
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
This is such a fun, adorable, and hilarious little novel. It is an extremely quirky adventure on a crazy flying machine, filled with ruthless bandits, insane inventors, and quite possibly the clumsiest kid in the world. While it is an incredibly over-the-top and outlandish story, I personally loved the randomness and absurdity of these characters’ journey. Every aspect of this novel is charming, having an overall atmosphere of warmth, family, and love. Though I am far from the target age-range of the intended audience for this book, I still had a fantastic time reading it—I could hardly keep a smile off my face.
In this novel, we follow a young boy named Waldo “W.B.” Baron as he wakes up one day to find out that his crazy inventor parents have renovated their house into a flying home. They plan to enter a competition where they are meant to fly around 1890’s North America on a scavenger hunt—the first people to return with every item on the list will win five-hundred dollars.
However, their plans take a twist when Rose Blackwood, the sister of the country’s most notorious criminal, sneaks aboard their flying house and holds W.B. and his family hostage. Her plan? To complete the race with the Baron family, then rob them of the prize in order to break her brother, Benedict Blackwood, out of jail. But, Rose Blackwood turns out to be much different than W.B. expected, and soon, relationships change and unexpected alliances form as they flounder through one outrageous event after another.
I absolutely flew through this novel, and not only because of its length—with nonstop action, there was not a single moment that dragged along. The readability as well as the weirdness of this story are really what pulled me in. There is a twinge of childishness to it, which is to be expected from a middle grade novel, but personally as an adult, this did not deter me in any way.
Bower’s characters were a fantastic part of this novel. W.B. was loveably dorky and clumsy, and someone you can’t help but root for. His parents are welcoming and kindhearted, and unabashedly goofy, but also highly intelligent scientists. Rose Blackwood was easily the most complex and interesting character in the whole story—and she has quite a bit in common with W.B. They both feel like outcasts in their own lives, in their families, and are struggling to assimilate. But along the way, they both learn their significance and where they fit in the world, as well as how to love themselves, faults and all.
This novel felt very jumbled, which many times negatively impacts a story—however, in this case, that was not necessarily true. Each individual event that occurs all come together in one nonsensical escapade—and honestly, it works, at least it did in my experience. It adds to the craziness and quirkiness of the characters and how they handle the obstacles that are thrown their way. Much of the humor comes from this element of as well—from both how utterly random and out-of-the-blue every event is, to how the characters flounder around on their way through each stage of the challenge.
This is a novel that readers will only enjoy if they suspend their disbelief and just immerse themselves in the unique world of W.B. and his gang. There are parts that become a bit repetitive, and certain scenes feel like they are rushed through much too quickly, but these are really just signs of the genre and length of the novel. That is one of the reasons I found this to be one of those middle grade books that is going to primarily garner a younger following rather than a much more universal one.
As for the actual writing itself, I really liked Bower’s style. His writing flowed very well and carried the story along at a fast yet easy to follow pace. Bower’s humor was wonderful and absolutely perfect for a middle grade novel. There is a very child-like feel to this story overall that makes it, as I said, something that is a bit less of a multi-generational read than some other middle grade stories.
This primarily focuses on being a novel for a younger audience. However, I do think that it can be fun for both children and those who are children at heart. It is a novel that anyone of any age can fall right in to and love every second of. With plenty of laugh-out-loud moments and heartwarming relationships, it’s hard not to become invested in the lives and escapades of these characters.
It is a big-hearted story of learning to accept both who you and the people in your life are. It is about learning to hold your own, be happy with yourself—inside and out—and finding out where you fit into the great puzzle that is life. Though the eccentricity of the plot might not strike the right chord with everyone, I would wholeheartedly recommend giving this story a try.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
This is such a fun, adorable, and hilarious little novel. It is an extremely quirky adventure on a crazy flying machine, filled with ruthless bandits, insane inventors, and quite possibly the clumsiest kid in the world. While it is an incredibly over-the-top and outlandish story, I personally loved the randomness and absurdity of these characters’ journey. Every aspect of this novel is charming, having an overall atmosphere of warmth, family, and love. Though I am far from the target age-range of the intended audience for this book, I still had a fantastic time reading it—I could hardly keep a smile off my face.
In this novel, we follow a young boy named Waldo “W.B.” Baron as he wakes up one day to find out that his crazy inventor parents have renovated their house into a flying home. They plan to enter a competition where they are meant to fly around 1890’s North America on a scavenger hunt—the first people to return with every item on the list will win five-hundred dollars.
However, their plans take a twist when Rose Blackwood, the sister of the country’s most notorious criminal, sneaks aboard their flying house and holds W.B. and his family hostage. Her plan? To complete the race with the Baron family, then rob them of the prize in order to break her brother, Benedict Blackwood, out of jail. But, Rose Blackwood turns out to be much different than W.B. expected, and soon, relationships change and unexpected alliances form as they flounder through one outrageous event after another.
I absolutely flew through this novel, and not only because of its length—with nonstop action, there was not a single moment that dragged along. The readability as well as the weirdness of this story are really what pulled me in. There is a twinge of childishness to it, which is to be expected from a middle grade novel, but personally as an adult, this did not deter me in any way.
Bower’s characters were a fantastic part of this novel. W.B. was loveably dorky and clumsy, and someone you can’t help but root for. His parents are welcoming and kindhearted, and unabashedly goofy, but also highly intelligent scientists. Rose Blackwood was easily the most complex and interesting character in the whole story—and she has quite a bit in common with W.B. They both feel like outcasts in their own lives, in their families, and are struggling to assimilate. But along the way, they both learn their significance and where they fit in the world, as well as how to love themselves, faults and all.
This novel felt very jumbled, which many times negatively impacts a story—however, in this case, that was not necessarily true. Each individual event that occurs all come together in one nonsensical escapade—and honestly, it works, at least it did in my experience. It adds to the craziness and quirkiness of the characters and how they handle the obstacles that are thrown their way. Much of the humor comes from this element of as well—from both how utterly random and out-of-the-blue every event is, to how the characters flounder around on their way through each stage of the challenge.
This is a novel that readers will only enjoy if they suspend their disbelief and just immerse themselves in the unique world of W.B. and his gang. There are parts that become a bit repetitive, and certain scenes feel like they are rushed through much too quickly, but these are really just signs of the genre and length of the novel. That is one of the reasons I found this to be one of those middle grade books that is going to primarily garner a younger following rather than a much more universal one.
As for the actual writing itself, I really liked Bower’s style. His writing flowed very well and carried the story along at a fast yet easy to follow pace. Bower’s humor was wonderful and absolutely perfect for a middle grade novel. There is a very child-like feel to this story overall that makes it, as I said, something that is a bit less of a multi-generational read than some other middle grade stories.
This primarily focuses on being a novel for a younger audience. However, I do think that it can be fun for both children and those who are children at heart. It is a novel that anyone of any age can fall right in to and love every second of. With plenty of laugh-out-loud moments and heartwarming relationships, it’s hard not to become invested in the lives and escapades of these characters.
It is a big-hearted story of learning to accept both who you and the people in your life are. It is about learning to hold your own, be happy with yourself—inside and out—and finding out where you fit into the great puzzle that is life. Though the eccentricity of the plot might not strike the right chord with everyone, I would wholeheartedly recommend giving this story a try.
July 23, 2017
Disclaimer: Received a free digital copy of the book through Netgalley.
" Sometimes life is even better than a strange dream."
Complete with a lot of grumbling, childish humour and an aunt who is part egg, this middle grade book is as humorous as it gets! Examples include wacky words like 'dastardly', amazing sentences like 'Sometimes it seems like my father's cheese has slipped off his cracker' and the signature habit of the author - first suggesting something and putting a figurative device to make a clear picture in the readers' mind and then jumping to saying that it actually happened ("His hair is bright white and sticks straight up in the air as though he's just been struck by lightening. It's been that way since he was first struck by lightening seven years ago. Since then, he's been struck by lightening nineteen times. It's the darnedest thing."). Honestly, I've not found myself laughing out loud while reading middle-grade, partly because I don't read it a lot and the ones I read are pretty serious, but this book was a fun treat and I really enjoyed the nonsensical humor that it was filled with.
The characters although admittedly very mainstream were flamboyant and quirky, especially the narrator, Waldo. I liked Rose's character but her being the typical villain-with-a-heart-of-gold didn't quite stick with me and I would've liked it better if she was actually a villain and not someone who was trying really hard to pretend to be one. The use of second person from the narrator made everything more interesting, relatable, humorous and imaginable:
"Have you ever had a bee fly into your trousers? If so you've probably done my parents' happy dance."
The book was fast paced and adventurous, I'd even say that Roald Dahl's fans would enjoy this because of all the wackiness (obsessed with this word), and that says something, considering he's one of the evergreen children fiction authors ever. The plot celebrated differences in our families, parents and even ourselves as a person which was great. There were important lessons that stood out in this book like "Never underestimate your parents' achievements - they always have more to give than we can think of.", "Be yourself.", "Some times the people who we idolize and admire the most are just that - people, like the rest of us." which I think would be great for younger readers. However, at the same time I think they weren't saliently expressed and could've been better integrated in the plot.
The illustrations put me off a bit because they weren't formatted properly but oh well, we can leave that part out because that's the publisher's mistake. One thing that really bothered me on the author's part was the inconsistency in the way the 10 year old narrator spoke - one moment quirky and completely childish and then the next giving advice to Rose's character like an adult would, rather irritating.
Nevertheless, this was a short amusing read that I quite enjoyed!
" Sometimes life is even better than a strange dream."
Complete with a lot of grumbling, childish humour and an aunt who is part egg, this middle grade book is as humorous as it gets! Examples include wacky words like 'dastardly', amazing sentences like 'Sometimes it seems like my father's cheese has slipped off his cracker' and the signature habit of the author - first suggesting something and putting a figurative device to make a clear picture in the readers' mind and then jumping to saying that it actually happened ("His hair is bright white and sticks straight up in the air as though he's just been struck by lightening. It's been that way since he was first struck by lightening seven years ago. Since then, he's been struck by lightening nineteen times. It's the darnedest thing."). Honestly, I've not found myself laughing out loud while reading middle-grade, partly because I don't read it a lot and the ones I read are pretty serious, but this book was a fun treat and I really enjoyed the nonsensical humor that it was filled with.
The characters although admittedly very mainstream were flamboyant and quirky, especially the narrator, Waldo. I liked Rose's character but her being the typical villain-with-a-heart-of-gold didn't quite stick with me and I would've liked it better if she was actually a villain and not someone who was trying really hard to pretend to be one. The use of second person from the narrator made everything more interesting, relatable, humorous and imaginable:
"Have you ever had a bee fly into your trousers? If so you've probably done my parents' happy dance."
The book was fast paced and adventurous, I'd even say that Roald Dahl's fans would enjoy this because of all the wackiness (obsessed with this word), and that says something, considering he's one of the evergreen children fiction authors ever. The plot celebrated differences in our families, parents and even ourselves as a person which was great. There were important lessons that stood out in this book like "Never underestimate your parents' achievements - they always have more to give than we can think of.", "Be yourself.", "Some times the people who we idolize and admire the most are just that - people, like the rest of us." which I think would be great for younger readers. However, at the same time I think they weren't saliently expressed and could've been better integrated in the plot.
The illustrations put me off a bit because they weren't formatted properly but oh well, we can leave that part out because that's the publisher's mistake. One thing that really bothered me on the author's part was the inconsistency in the way the 10 year old narrator spoke - one moment quirky and completely childish and then the next giving advice to Rose's character like an adult would, rather irritating.
Nevertheless, this was a short amusing read that I quite enjoyed!
October 13, 2024
This is marketed as a Middle School age book; I believe it will appeal to a much younger audience than that.
This was a weird little book that I literally read in 2 1/2 hours. Because it was from NetGalley and therefore an ARC, it had really crappy formatting [that I hope didn't make it into the actual Kindle version that is being released now]. It also has pictures in it; not that you can tell what any of them actually are in this version. It was mostly just pages of one or part of one image [between one and eight pages per set of pictures]. Again, I hope that this isn't how the Kindle books that are being sold are like as well because it was very frustrating and annoying to be honest. You never really knew what the pictures where trying to convey.
The story is just okay - a young boy [in the "Old West" days] who is quite possibly the clumsiest boy in the universe and who doesn't understand [or really try to understand] his scientific inventing parents, wakes up one day to find the house flying across the United States. That starts the adventure for the Baron Family. And what could have been a seriously cute book about adventure turned into a weird book that was filled with whining and clumsiness and a lot of weird awkwardness that made it a struggle to finish.
I would not buy this book for my middle-schoolers, nor do I think I would buy it for the younger set as well. What could of been a good story ends up really almost insulting the readers intelligence and belief in a fantasy world. I was VERY disappointed.
This was a weird little book that I literally read in 2 1/2 hours. Because it was from NetGalley and therefore an ARC, it had really crappy formatting [that I hope didn't make it into the actual Kindle version that is being released now]. It also has pictures in it; not that you can tell what any of them actually are in this version. It was mostly just pages of one or part of one image [between one and eight pages per set of pictures]. Again, I hope that this isn't how the Kindle books that are being sold are like as well because it was very frustrating and annoying to be honest. You never really knew what the pictures where trying to convey.
The story is just okay - a young boy [in the "Old West" days] who is quite possibly the clumsiest boy in the universe and who doesn't understand [or really try to understand] his scientific inventing parents, wakes up one day to find the house flying across the United States. That starts the adventure for the Baron Family. And what could have been a seriously cute book about adventure turned into a weird book that was filled with whining and clumsiness and a lot of weird awkwardness that made it a struggle to finish.
I would not buy this book for my middle-schoolers, nor do I think I would buy it for the younger set as well. What could of been a good story ends up really almost insulting the readers intelligence and belief in a fantasy world. I was VERY disappointed.
March 30, 2017
The Magnificent Flying Baron Estate is a fantastic, quirky adventure with flamboyant characters. Not only is it funny, but it is an immersion into a wacky universe where a house can fly (not float!), a father repeatedly gets hit by lightning but somehow miraculously recovers without a scratch (except for a mad scientist-style hairdo), and a wannabe criminal kidnaps a whole family but still really cares about politeness, among other amusing incongruities.
It is a fast-paced book that kids (and young-ish adults) will surely enjoy. It made me think of the nonsensical crazy world of Alice in Wonderland. Going from one oddity to another, you eventually get suck in this wonderfully nutty intrigue.
It’s imaginative, funny, quirky and entertaining. I literally couldn’t put it down and read it within a few hours. I very much enjoyed it and highly recommend it.
It is a fast-paced book that kids (and young-ish adults) will surely enjoy. It made me think of the nonsensical crazy world of Alice in Wonderland. Going from one oddity to another, you eventually get suck in this wonderfully nutty intrigue.
It’s imaginative, funny, quirky and entertaining. I literally couldn’t put it down and read it within a few hours. I very much enjoyed it and highly recommend it.
July 12, 2017
I received a complimentary copy of the the book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Middle school boys and girls are going to be cracking up all over the place as they read this way-out-there hilarious book. There will be knee slapping, falling out of chairs, and outbursts of giggling as they “fly” through the pages of this story. “Sometimes laughing manically feels really good.” The middle school humor is what makes the book so good. It is one liners, puns, word plays, jokes, slapstick and just plain nonsense.
The main character, Waldo Baron, or more affectionately simply called W.B., is a very lovable character. The first thing middle schoolers will love is that W.B. has to be the clumsiest child on the planet. He is constantly tripping, dropping, falling, stumbling, running into, crashing into, blundering, fumbling and misstepping throughout the story. He takes it all in stride and doesn’t let his lack of grace stop him. He and the other characters are constantly getting themselves into messes. Also, W.B.’s parents are nuts. They are really what you would call socially awkward and have no clue as to what is going on and don’t care unless it involves one of their inventions. The interactions between W.B. and his parents, although exaggerated, add more humor to the story. No one really knows what the other one is talking about and everyone is do easily distracted that they never follow the flow of the conversation. This leads to more problems than solutions. W.B. is a character that the readers will love. With crazy inventor parents, his world is full of adventures. Sequel?
The plot of the story is middle school crazy too. A flying house designed to compete in a race around the country to pick up specific products and return to Chicago to win $500. When the Baron Estate picks up an unwanted passenger, Rose Blackwood, things start getting really crazy. Rose is the sister of the notorious outlaw Benedict Blackwood that is always being chased by “Sheriff Hoyt Graham and his deputies.
“Benedict Blackwood, who was said to be so mean and nasty that if you made him mad in a dream, he’d knock your lights out when he woke up.” That’s one bad dude! Rose hijacks the flying estate and kidnaps W.B.’s family so they can help her rescue her brother. They meet a bunch of trouble and a colorful array of characters. Yosemite Sam move over!
This book is one crazy ride. It is a mixed-up, science fiction, funny western. Bower combines all of these to create THE MAGNIFICENT FLYING BARON ESTATE.
I am seriously considering using this in my classroom as a read aloud. I believe my 6th graders will really get a kick out of W.B.’s outlandish adventures. They will love everything about this book.
Middle school boys and girls are going to be cracking up all over the place as they read this way-out-there hilarious book. There will be knee slapping, falling out of chairs, and outbursts of giggling as they “fly” through the pages of this story. “Sometimes laughing manically feels really good.” The middle school humor is what makes the book so good. It is one liners, puns, word plays, jokes, slapstick and just plain nonsense.
The main character, Waldo Baron, or more affectionately simply called W.B., is a very lovable character. The first thing middle schoolers will love is that W.B. has to be the clumsiest child on the planet. He is constantly tripping, dropping, falling, stumbling, running into, crashing into, blundering, fumbling and misstepping throughout the story. He takes it all in stride and doesn’t let his lack of grace stop him. He and the other characters are constantly getting themselves into messes. Also, W.B.’s parents are nuts. They are really what you would call socially awkward and have no clue as to what is going on and don’t care unless it involves one of their inventions. The interactions between W.B. and his parents, although exaggerated, add more humor to the story. No one really knows what the other one is talking about and everyone is do easily distracted that they never follow the flow of the conversation. This leads to more problems than solutions. W.B. is a character that the readers will love. With crazy inventor parents, his world is full of adventures. Sequel?
The plot of the story is middle school crazy too. A flying house designed to compete in a race around the country to pick up specific products and return to Chicago to win $500. When the Baron Estate picks up an unwanted passenger, Rose Blackwood, things start getting really crazy. Rose is the sister of the notorious outlaw Benedict Blackwood that is always being chased by “Sheriff Hoyt Graham and his deputies.
“Benedict Blackwood, who was said to be so mean and nasty that if you made him mad in a dream, he’d knock your lights out when he woke up.” That’s one bad dude! Rose hijacks the flying estate and kidnaps W.B.’s family so they can help her rescue her brother. They meet a bunch of trouble and a colorful array of characters. Yosemite Sam move over!
This book is one crazy ride. It is a mixed-up, science fiction, funny western. Bower combines all of these to create THE MAGNIFICENT FLYING BARON ESTATE.
I am seriously considering using this in my classroom as a read aloud. I believe my 6th graders will really get a kick out of W.B.’s outlandish adventures. They will love everything about this book.
May 20, 2017
Imagine an adventure that has deputies and outlaws, scientists and amazing inventions, and a cross-country flying scavenger hunt. That will put you somewhere in the neighborhood of The Magnificent Flying Baron Estate. Waldo Baron, W.B. to his family, narrates the story of his family and their incredible flying (not floating), house. Waldo has two scientists for parents, and they decide to enter a contest to invent a unique flying vehicle so that they can use the prize money to hire an assistant. W.B. is not impressed with this idea for various reasons, but he doesn't have much choice as the house lifts off and flies to Chicago for the start of the contest.
Filled with eccentric characters, wild pigs, baked beans, and dreams about talking squirrels, this book is never dull. Waldo is an entertaining narrator who shares his puzzlement over his parents and their theories, his admiration for the exploits of Sheriff Hoyt Graham, and even the extremes of his own clumsiness (getting poked in the eye by a cuckoo in a clock, for example). As I read, I pictured his father looking much like Doc Brown from "Back to the Future" and the house floating along like the one in "Up," but without the balloons.
If you enjoy humorous stories with lots of action, falling into mud pits, contests to see who has the smelliest socks, and a villain with "two very large revolvers strapped to his sides, as well as six knives buckled to his boots, a bow an arrow over his shoulder, a crossbow on his back, a sword sheathed at his thigh, a lasso around his waist, a slingshot in his back pocket, a tomahawk in his long underwear..." then pick up this book. You'll fly through it even more quickly than the Baron Estate flies through the air.
I read an ebook provided by the publishers through NetGalley.
Filled with eccentric characters, wild pigs, baked beans, and dreams about talking squirrels, this book is never dull. Waldo is an entertaining narrator who shares his puzzlement over his parents and their theories, his admiration for the exploits of Sheriff Hoyt Graham, and even the extremes of his own clumsiness (getting poked in the eye by a cuckoo in a clock, for example). As I read, I pictured his father looking much like Doc Brown from "Back to the Future" and the house floating along like the one in "Up," but without the balloons.
If you enjoy humorous stories with lots of action, falling into mud pits, contests to see who has the smelliest socks, and a villain with "two very large revolvers strapped to his sides, as well as six knives buckled to his boots, a bow an arrow over his shoulder, a crossbow on his back, a sword sheathed at his thigh, a lasso around his waist, a slingshot in his back pocket, a tomahawk in his long underwear..." then pick up this book. You'll fly through it even more quickly than the Baron Estate flies through the air.
I read an ebook provided by the publishers through NetGalley.
September 6, 2017
One of the most interesting things I caught about this book was that it is set at the beginning in 1891. I love the strange dream that our main character, a male child of undeterminate age has, then what his birthday present from his parents is just made me laugh. Oh boy, the name this little boy is forced to suffer with had me shaking my head. Oh my, I could not stop laughing in the first chapter alone. Interesting to find out they're based in Arizona. That's a hoot. But, the squirrel and the prairie dog in the dream make sense now. I'm not quite sure what to make of the mother and father who love to do the strangest experiments. I suppose I really should say, inventions, not experiments. When our young man gets upset with his parents, I love their response to why they did this to their home and why they thought he'd want to go along. "This is our chance to be a part of history," said P. "And we can do it as a family." is the ultimate response he gets. What happens once the Barons get to Chicago just had me shaking my head. Oh boy. What contest does the Baron Family enter into and what happens when they do? if you want to know what happens in this lovely child friendly chapter book, you'll have to read it and see if your child will like it. It was amusing for me as an adult.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
May 21, 2017
W.B. woke up one Saturday morning to discover that his inventor parents turned their house into a flying machine and his plans for the afternoon are dashed. It is 1891, after all, and living in Pitchfork, in the Arizona territory, means that W.B. gets to see Sheriff Hoyt Graham in person. He's already read all the adventure books written about Sheriff Graham and all the villains he's put in jail, so getting to see the sheriff in person would just make W.B. so happy. But now he is flying to Chicago in his house.
W.B. (short for Waldo Baron) finds out from his parents that they're heading for Chicago, to the Exposition Fairgrounds, where they will begin a scavenger hunt around the country to win the prize of $500.
The Baron family makes it to the fairgrounds okay, but their adventure takes a turn when they get kidnapped by Rose Blackwood, who commandeers their flying house to win the prize money to get her brother, the nefarious Benedict Blackwood, out of jail.
But things aren't always as they seem in this quirky, clever story of family, heroes, villains, adventure, and dreams of talking squirrels. If you have a middle grader in need of some anachronistic, fantastic fun this summer, then you should definitely check out Eric Bower's The Magnificent Flying Baron Estate.
Galleys for The Magnificent Flying Baron Estate were provided by the publisher through NetGalley.com.
W.B. (short for Waldo Baron) finds out from his parents that they're heading for Chicago, to the Exposition Fairgrounds, where they will begin a scavenger hunt around the country to win the prize of $500.
The Baron family makes it to the fairgrounds okay, but their adventure takes a turn when they get kidnapped by Rose Blackwood, who commandeers their flying house to win the prize money to get her brother, the nefarious Benedict Blackwood, out of jail.
But things aren't always as they seem in this quirky, clever story of family, heroes, villains, adventure, and dreams of talking squirrels. If you have a middle grader in need of some anachronistic, fantastic fun this summer, then you should definitely check out Eric Bower's The Magnificent Flying Baron Estate.
Galleys for The Magnificent Flying Baron Estate were provided by the publisher through NetGalley.com.
July 14, 2017
**I was given a free digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
I loved it! The main character was this clumsy, chubby little boy. His parents turn their house into a flying machine to win this contest, but they are kidnapped by the sister of the most ruthless criminal in America. She plans to help them win so she can steal the money and then help her brother escape.
And boom, let the adventures begin. This book is loaded with adventure and it's hilarious. I had more than one occasion where I had to read something a few times because we were all laughing so hard. That doesn't happen too often.
I love that the immediate family goes by letter abbreviations. Waldo Baron is W.B., Ma is M and Pa is P. The only time W.B. is called anything else is Wide Butt by Shorty, a girl W.B. meets in Chicago. His parents spend most of the story tied up in the control room. His dad is tied to the steering wheel and his comments are peppered with "Wheeeee!" because he loves to spin - lol.
The graphics are by Agnieszka Grochalska, a polish graphics artist. My copy messed up the pictures, but from what I could see, and it's here on the cover, she did a very nice job.
I see there's a 2nd book in the works, I really hope I can get my hands on that. Even Ivan was into this one, and he never listens to me read.
I loved it! The main character was this clumsy, chubby little boy. His parents turn their house into a flying machine to win this contest, but they are kidnapped by the sister of the most ruthless criminal in America. She plans to help them win so she can steal the money and then help her brother escape.
And boom, let the adventures begin. This book is loaded with adventure and it's hilarious. I had more than one occasion where I had to read something a few times because we were all laughing so hard. That doesn't happen too often.
I love that the immediate family goes by letter abbreviations. Waldo Baron is W.B., Ma is M and Pa is P. The only time W.B. is called anything else is Wide Butt by Shorty, a girl W.B. meets in Chicago. His parents spend most of the story tied up in the control room. His dad is tied to the steering wheel and his comments are peppered with "Wheeeee!" because he loves to spin - lol.
The graphics are by Agnieszka Grochalska, a polish graphics artist. My copy messed up the pictures, but from what I could see, and it's here on the cover, she did a very nice job.
I see there's a 2nd book in the works, I really hope I can get my hands on that. Even Ivan was into this one, and he never listens to me read.
July 8, 2021
The Magnificent Flying Baron Estate by Eric Bower
I have been using Zoom to read with two of my grandsons who live far from me. Neither of them like to read; in fact it is a chore and they are both “low” readers for their grades. One is just leaving 5th grade and the other 3rd grade. I wanted to find books that were fun and lively to try to excite them to pick up a book on their own. We take turns reading out loud, a page at a time, each with our own books to follow along as the others read. So, for months, I have been reading lots of juvenile books to find ones with appropriately large print, enjoyable content, and at about a 4th grade level to be between the two reading levels. When I started pre-reading this book, I decided it wouldn’t work. I decided it was too silly and had too many unknown words and situations. By the time I got about 3/4 the way through I decided it would be our next read. We have all absolutely loved reading this book together. We laugh our way through each of our 20 minute reading times. If the boys start out grumpy because they would rather play a video game, they always end up happy. There is lots of silliness, name-calling, violence, and hilarity. I highly recommend it for a fun time. This is the first in a series of stand alone books.
I have been using Zoom to read with two of my grandsons who live far from me. Neither of them like to read; in fact it is a chore and they are both “low” readers for their grades. One is just leaving 5th grade and the other 3rd grade. I wanted to find books that were fun and lively to try to excite them to pick up a book on their own. We take turns reading out loud, a page at a time, each with our own books to follow along as the others read. So, for months, I have been reading lots of juvenile books to find ones with appropriately large print, enjoyable content, and at about a 4th grade level to be between the two reading levels. When I started pre-reading this book, I decided it wouldn’t work. I decided it was too silly and had too many unknown words and situations. By the time I got about 3/4 the way through I decided it would be our next read. We have all absolutely loved reading this book together. We laugh our way through each of our 20 minute reading times. If the boys start out grumpy because they would rather play a video game, they always end up happy. There is lots of silliness, name-calling, violence, and hilarity. I highly recommend it for a fun time. This is the first in a series of stand alone books.
May 27, 2017
I received this book in exchange for an honest review, which has not altered my opinion.
This book is the epitome of strangeness and randomness that made complete sense to me. Parts of this book were confusing simply because it was so strangely humored, but once used to the way it is written, it is really very much amusing! The small drawings were adorable and made the imagery even better.
While the storyline is predicting, it was absolutely ridiculous and adorable. I enjoyed this book but it's difficult to recommend because I feel as though it should be one of those LEGO movies, that is precisely what the writing reminds me of. The characters are eccentric and so different from what you might think. Though it does take a little bit to get into simply because of the humor.
I highly recommend this for fans of the LEGO movie and for humor of that sort! It's quite amusing and made me smile after a long day.
This book is the epitome of strangeness and randomness that made complete sense to me. Parts of this book were confusing simply because it was so strangely humored, but once used to the way it is written, it is really very much amusing! The small drawings were adorable and made the imagery even better.
While the storyline is predicting, it was absolutely ridiculous and adorable. I enjoyed this book but it's difficult to recommend because I feel as though it should be one of those LEGO movies, that is precisely what the writing reminds me of. The characters are eccentric and so different from what you might think. Though it does take a little bit to get into simply because of the humor.
I highly recommend this for fans of the LEGO movie and for humor of that sort! It's quite amusing and made me smile after a long day.
January 11, 2019
In hopes of winning the $500 prize for a race across the countyr, Waldo Baron's parents turn their house into a flying one. Their plans however are cut shoert when Rose Blackwood, sister of notorious villain Benedict Blackwood, kidnaps the family and their house to free her brother from jail. Rose, however, is not exactly who she seems. Can Waldo figure out how to save his family and keep Benedict in jail? Hilarious from start to finish, this book is filled with action-packed adventure, humor, and will delight readers. The characters are likable, entertaining, and pull the reader into the story. Fans of humor, fantasy, adventure, or who have always wanted a flying house will want to pick this book up and will eagerly want to read book 2. Recommended for any collection.
Please Note: A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was received. All opinions expressed are our own.
Please Note: A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was received. All opinions expressed are our own.
March 5, 2019
WB (Waldo) Baron wakes up one morning to find his house floating through the sky. As his inventor parents explain, they have joined a race across the country. So they set off from Arizona to Chicago where the race will begin. It is in Chicago that they are kidnapped by Rose Blackwood, sister of the famous bandit Benedict Blackwood. She wants to win the race so she can use the $500 prize to hire criminals to free her brother. The only thing is she is not much of a criminal herself. Together Rose and WB complete the race despite WB being the clumsiest kid in the world. There are plenty of shenanigans during the race and after when they encounter Benedict quite free from jail.
This was an absurd adventure but quite enjoyable to read. WB and Rose are quite the pair and their shenanigans are quite funny. Not a lot of substance and very little real science (do not believe WB on how time zones work!), but a quick, fun read nonetheless.
This was an absurd adventure but quite enjoyable to read. WB and Rose are quite the pair and their shenanigans are quite funny. Not a lot of substance and very little real science (do not believe WB on how time zones work!), but a quick, fun read nonetheless.
December 29, 2017
Chapter Book/MG, Adventure
"WB" Waldo Baron, is a chubby, klutzy kid whos hero is a Sheriff in the wild west of the 1800's. WB's parents are inventors who enter a contest with their "Flying Baron Estate" - house, a treasure hunt which takes them throughout the States and Territories in order to win a cash prize. They are kidnapped by Rose Blackwood in her attempt to steal the prize money so that she can free her villain brother from jail. The story is driven by humor which turns to silliness, taking away from the read. In the end "WB" falls short of becoming the hero of the story. He is aided by "Shorty" and Rose which is fine....but it is his father who ultimately vanquishes the villain. The author fails to keep his promise to the reader!!
"WB" Waldo Baron, is a chubby, klutzy kid whos hero is a Sheriff in the wild west of the 1800's. WB's parents are inventors who enter a contest with their "Flying Baron Estate" - house, a treasure hunt which takes them throughout the States and Territories in order to win a cash prize. They are kidnapped by Rose Blackwood in her attempt to steal the prize money so that she can free her villain brother from jail. The story is driven by humor which turns to silliness, taking away from the read. In the end "WB" falls short of becoming the hero of the story. He is aided by "Shorty" and Rose which is fine....but it is his father who ultimately vanquishes the villain. The author fails to keep his promise to the reader!!
April 20, 2024
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
W.B. And his parents, M and P, are the Barons. His parents are inventors, and they have invented a flying house and are using it to enter a race to travel across the country. Alas, at the beginning, they are kidnapped by Rose Benedict, sister to the notorious desperado, Benjamin Benedict! They are forced to take her along, win the race, and then break her brother out of jail.
However, Rose is not as mean as she wants to appear, and she ends up helping more than hurting.
Reminiscent of campy 70’s cartoons and a childhood favorite book, Railroad Arthur, I enjoyed this quick little book.
W.B. And his parents, M and P, are the Barons. His parents are inventors, and they have invented a flying house and are using it to enter a race to travel across the country. Alas, at the beginning, they are kidnapped by Rose Benedict, sister to the notorious desperado, Benjamin Benedict! They are forced to take her along, win the race, and then break her brother out of jail.
However, Rose is not as mean as she wants to appear, and she ends up helping more than hurting.
Reminiscent of campy 70’s cartoons and a childhood favorite book, Railroad Arthur, I enjoyed this quick little book.
May 8, 2017
Actual rating : 3,5/5
Aaaah this was a fun book to read! It reminded me a lot of Pseudonymous Bosch because of its humour!
The characters were funny and loveable (W.B. and Rose !!) and the plot was simple but effective. It also dealt with issues that I like seeing in children's fiction : how both Rose and W.B. deal with the fact they're different from their family and that's not a bad thing. I also liked Iris which made a short appearance but I really liked the fact she apologized after she noticed she had hurt WB's feelings.
The only thing I wasn't a fan of was the way WB managed to beat his enemy, I think it was a bit too much. But otherwise I loved the "science" in this book !
Aaaah this was a fun book to read! It reminded me a lot of Pseudonymous Bosch because of its humour!
The characters were funny and loveable (W.B. and Rose !!) and the plot was simple but effective. It also dealt with issues that I like seeing in children's fiction : how both Rose and W.B. deal with the fact they're different from their family and that's not a bad thing. I also liked Iris which made a short appearance but I really liked the fact she apologized after she noticed she had hurt WB's feelings.
The only thing I wasn't a fan of was the way WB managed to beat his enemy, I think it was a bit too much. But otherwise I loved the "science" in this book !
August 6, 2017
Review copy provided by NetGalley
This was a delightful book. Part impossible science fiction, part adventure story, but mostly madcap humor, this one could have been written by the people who invented the old Looney Tunes gag about defying the laws of gravity because they never studied law. It was just amusing and strange, the kind of book that kids would surely enjoy. It would be a great read-aloud. Thrilling adventure can be extremely funny, and this book proves it. There is a subtle lesson about giving people a chance and things not always being what they seemed laced into the narrative, but it's sub-textual. Highly recommended for children and adults with a sense of humor.
This was a delightful book. Part impossible science fiction, part adventure story, but mostly madcap humor, this one could have been written by the people who invented the old Looney Tunes gag about defying the laws of gravity because they never studied law. It was just amusing and strange, the kind of book that kids would surely enjoy. It would be a great read-aloud. Thrilling adventure can be extremely funny, and this book proves it. There is a subtle lesson about giving people a chance and things not always being what they seemed laced into the narrative, but it's sub-textual. Highly recommended for children and adults with a sense of humor.
March 19, 2017
I have mixed feelings about this book. On one hand, it is a story of a boy's adventure courtesy of his parents and their flying house. Which is a great, I like the idea. On the other hand, it feels like a story that was rushed to meet a deadline. Or maybe I've been reading Harry Potter, Percy Jackson and Eragon that this book falls way to short of such stories. I had to consciously tell myself to not to think too deeply about the story, and to expand my imagination to have an idea of how the characters all looked...
W.B. is an ordinary boy thrust into an extraordinary adventure. Which would've been great if it actually changed him to be better. But no, W.B. comes back from the adventure mostly the same as he was prior. Instead we see Rose as the one who changed and grew up. Rose is a much more interesting character than W.B. And to me, Rose is the star and W.B. is the sidekick. Think it would've been more interesting if it was all done in Rose's perspective than W.B.
And here lies my problem with this book... Great adventures leave their mark and change us. This book felt like I was reading about a boy who just went to the park.
W.B. is an ordinary boy thrust into an extraordinary adventure. Which would've been great if it actually changed him to be better. But no, W.B. comes back from the adventure mostly the same as he was prior. Instead we see Rose as the one who changed and grew up. Rose is a much more interesting character than W.B. And to me, Rose is the star and W.B. is the sidekick. Think it would've been more interesting if it was all done in Rose's perspective than W.B.
And here lies my problem with this book... Great adventures leave their mark and change us. This book felt like I was reading about a boy who just went to the park.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2018
An interesting story line with enough humorous twists to keep middle grade readers involved. The hero Waldo Baron "W.B." lives with his parents and aunt. His parents are scientists and inventors and create a variety of unusual things. They've found a way to make their house fly and have entered a contest to fly around the country. Enter, Rose, as a kidnapper to free her brother from jail.
They set off on adventures to claim the ten required items in the cross country flights and have an entire series of mishaps along the way.
The end sets up the next adventure in the series.
They set off on adventures to claim the ten required items in the cross country flights and have an entire series of mishaps along the way.
The end sets up the next adventure in the series.
August 18, 2017
In most kids' adventure stories, the child must be separated from the parents in order to have the adventure. This begins as the type of story I've hoped for: crazy parents who drag the child along on an adventure. Of course, pretty soon they get kind of tied up, and most of the action is up to the reluctant child. Set in 1891 in name only (steam power, yes, but 21st century conversations), it is a quick, fun read, and I don't know why my 10-year-0ld hasn't finished it yet.
June 8, 2017
I was less than a quarter of the way done with the book before I bought a copy for myself to read to my son. I'm also going to get a copy for my nephews. It is very funny. My favorite joke throughout the book is how no one understands time zones. The time period was perfect too. I feel like had it been a modern day setting the story would not have been believable.
June 19, 2017
I loved this book so much it is really amusing to me my favorite character is rose because even though she does not have a very nice and loving family she still has a kind heart towards w.b and his family and I thought at the beginning of the book that she was not going to be bad and that she only wanted to prove herself.I also liked how his aunt dorcas was such a drama queen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2017
Young readers will love this! It's funny, odd, adventurous... what it's there that one wouldn't love? Perfect for summer vacation, weekends or good night stories this book it's a perfect choice.
The story is exciting and the characters are likable.
disclaimer: I got a copy from netgalley for my honest review.
The story is exciting and the characters are likable.
disclaimer: I got a copy from netgalley for my honest review.
September 25, 2018
Books like this make me want to read more middle-grade novels. It's full of adventure, family dynamics, kidnappings, duels, and unlikely friendships. And the world in which all of this takes place is somewhat ridiculous, but that just makes it more fun. If you're looking for a book to read with your kids, or by yourself, I highly recommend this one.
March 25, 2019
This is one that kids will probably enjoy - lots of action, "bad guys vs good guys".
Two main characters are a "chubby" boy and a kidnapping woman (youngish), who, for reasons unknown, become "family".
Not sure why the author set it in 1891 - as some of the ideas certainly wouldn't have been around during the time frame.
Two main characters are a "chubby" boy and a kidnapping woman (youngish), who, for reasons unknown, become "family".
Not sure why the author set it in 1891 - as some of the ideas certainly wouldn't have been around during the time frame.
May 27, 2017
****Copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review****
This was ok - wasn't really my sort of kids story, but I can see that it might really work for some children. Well written and an interesting idea, but just didn't float my boat.
This was ok - wasn't really my sort of kids story, but I can see that it might really work for some children. Well written and an interesting idea, but just didn't float my boat.
March 26, 2017
Cute middle grade book. As an adult, I like the middle grade books that appeal to all ages. This one is strictly appeals to kids. That being said, the humor was great and I was laughing out loud at a couple of spots. It also didn't feel like the book was set in the 1800s.
August 26, 2017
Great read aloud!
October 19, 2017
Random & fun to read aloud. Giggles throughout.
October 29, 2017
Fun and whimsical, kids will absolutely love this book and the adventures of WB and his family. With inventors for parents, life is anything but boring.
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