School Library Journal
Gr 1-2-"Short, shorter, shortest!" Stink, the younger brother of the ever-popular Judy Moody, is shrinking. In the morning he was exactly one quarter inch taller than he is that night. For the shortest second grader in his school (maybe in the world), this is a disaster. What can he do? Judy suggests stretching him out, but he decides to take his mother's advice and eat his peas instead. However, Stink has other worries as well, such as a disastrous weekend caring for his class's pet newt. Then, a President's Day project allows Stink to shine as he shares all he knows about his favorite president, James Madison, who was also short. Delightful full-page and spot-art cartoons and playful language in large type bring the child's adventures to life. "Things are definitely looking up, up, UP" with this bright addition to beginning chapter-book collections.-Deanna Romriell, Salt Lake City Library, UT Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.
Kirkus Reviews
Judy Moody's little brother Stink, a.k.a. James, finally gets his turn. He uses it to obsess about his height-especially after he loses a quarter of an inch between morning and night (as does everyone, he later learns). He also records unfortunate incidents with hair-gel dye, the class newt and a sink drain, and an all-too-shrinkable wig intended to kick his report on James Madison, the shortest President and so, not coincidentally, his favorite, up a notch. Presented in large type on small pages, enhanced with plenty of Reynolds's black-and-white ink-and-wash drawings, plus comics contributed by Stink himself, and ending on a triumphant note, this makes fine fare for fledgling chapter-book readers. Stink definitely measures up to his memorable sister. (Fiction. 8-10)
From the Publisher
Delightful full-page and spot-art cartoons and playful language in large type bring the child's adventures to life. 'Things are definitely looking up, up, UP' with this bright addition to beginning chapter-book collections.
—School Library Journal
This spirited launch of a new series focuses on Judy Moody's younger brother, Stink. . . . McDonald's breezy narrative and likable character will keep Judy's followers amply amused and recruit new fans.
—Publishers Weekly
The narrative is fun and laced with puns-from Mr. Trashmore to "newt in shining armor," and it's peppered with black-and-white illustrations, including comics reflecting Stink's triumphant fantasies.
—Booklist
A fine fare for fledgling chapter-book readers. Stink definitely measures up to his memorable sister.
—Kirkus Reviews
Readers of Judy Moody who requested that Stink have a book of his own will not be disappointed.
—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
A humorous look at the emotional trauma a second-grader experiences at the thought of growing smaller, rather than growing taller.
—Times-Picayune
Judy Moody lovers (and their little brothers) will adore her younger brother, Stink.
—Seattle Times
With child-savvy humor and energy, McDonald explores Stink's frustrations with being 'the shortest second-grader in Class 2-D. Probably the shortest human being the in whole word, including Alaska and Hawaii.'
—Child
Hilarious…Set them loose on the rest of the series, and ZOOM, they're reading and loving it!
—Readkiddoread.com