Jenny and the Thunder-Kicker

by Alessandro Reale, Senyphine (Illustrations)

Little Jenny Spotter is afraid of thunderstorms. What kid wouldn't be? Her father tells her there's no reason to be scared - thunderstorms are caused by a race of friendly giants called Thunder-Kickers. One night, during a really bad storm, Jenny hears a loud crash outside. She discovers a Thunder-Kicker has fallen out of the sky and landed in her backyard! Jenny wants to help her new friend get back home, but she'll have to overcome her fear of the thunder to do so.

101 pages, Paperback

Published February 6, 2019

About the author

Growing up, Alessandro Reale always had a passion for storytelling. When he was six years old, he wrote his first short story about the class teddy bear. At age eight, he penned a short detective story for the school newsletter. He then returned to tell another short story revolving around the teddy bear and his journey across the world.

By age 14, Alessandro began working on his first full-length novel. This would eventually form the foundation of "Dodger's Doorway," which Alessandro officially self-published in 2011.

As of 2026, Alessandro has self-published a sequel to Dodger's Doorway, a middle-grade chapter book, and 10 children's books. His book, "Only One Samantha," won the Best Children's Book Award at the 2018 Indie Author Book Experience in Roselle, New Jersey.

When he's not busy creating new stories, Alessandro enjoys reading, collecting comics, and playing video games.

Reviews

[A.P. Mobley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read both Dodger's Doorway and Return to Storyworld by Alessandro Reale, and I love the fantastical re-imaginings of fairy-tales for the YA audience in those books. Although Jenny and the Thunder-Kicker is Reale's first go at children's chapter books, I went into the book with high expectations, and I'm happy to say I was NOT disappointed!

I absolutely ADORE the fantasy story Reale has conjured up this time. It's engaging, fast-paced, and wholesome. Reale also perfectly captured the voice of a 7 year old girl (and I would know--my mom is a first-grade teacher, and I'm a substitute teacher. I either hear about or witness the way 6 and 7 year olds talk/behave on a daily basis!).
The themes in this story are wonderful as well. It's all about friendship and overcoming your fears, both of which ring true for kids this age. Heck, even though I'm 22 I found myself rooting for Jenny to face her fears and help her new friend "Mr. Tarp."

I plan to read this story to my kids someday and I donated a copy to my mom's classroom. I also plan to buy this book for future Christmases/birthdays for the little ones in my life; it's that good! I really do recommend you pick up this book for your child, grandchild, niece/nephew, cousin, classroom, or just any kid you can think of really!