Book Review: Deep-Space Disco by Erik Craddock

Deep-Space Disco
by Erik Craddock
Stone Rabbit Series

Random House Books for Young Readers
ISBN-10: 0-375-85876-8
ISBN-13: 978-0-375-85876-5
Publication Date: September, 2009
List Price: $5.99

Review: The days of the cute cuddly bunnies are over in Erik Craddock’s 3rd installment in the Stone Rabbit graphic series entitled Deep-Space Disco. In the beginning of the story Stone Rabbit is arguing with his friends about a video game. When he gives up on his quest to prove his friend is a cheat, Stone Rabbit storms away only to come face-to-face with a Stone Rabbit imposter. Stone Rabbit is sent to another galaxy while the imposter assumes his identity in hopes of destroying the earth. Stone Rabbit must find a way to escape from the galaxy leaders who think he’s an escaped felon and get back to earth in time to save the day.

Deep-Space Disco is an action adventure that is perfect for the reluctant early reader. Although the plot is very simplistic and predictable, there is still enough fun in the book to capture the attention of young children. The story itself is essentially the same story anyone can find on Cartoon Network about the underdog who saves the world, but it is still a worthy read simply because it is fun and eye-appealing. The book begins with an action scene that is very unclear and then suddenly Stone Rabbit is at a table with his friends arguing about a game. Possibly reading the first two books in the series might clear up this confusion, however, once Stone Rabbit is abducted, the story begins to make more sense.

Stone Rabbit has a wry sense of humor that makes the reader root for him from the start. Plus Craddock incorporates some higher-level vocabulary complete with a glossary at the back of the book. But, excellent context clues help to make this book appropriate for younger readers who will enjoy the pictures, fast-paced story, and still learn new vocabulary in the process. Deep-Space Disco is a fun graphic novel ideal for a child - particularly a boy age 7-9.

Review written by Margo Nauert (6th grade teacher).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Deep-Space Disco for this review.

Have you read Deep-Space Disco? How would you rate it?