Jack and the Beanstink (Stinky Stories 2)

New
81iHm9L0cDL
Co-Authors / Illustrators
Age Range
8+
Release Date
October 01, 2024
ISBN
978-0063311220
Buy This Book
      
Fee, fi, fo, FUN!
It’s story time again at Hickleberry Elementary with Stinky the stuffed skunk—and this time the class is reading the classic Jack and the Beanstalk! Everyone knows the story ends with the giant falling from the sky, but only Stinky knows what happened next! Jack went on to sell all those golden eggs and become a billionaire, while Hubert the giant wound up stranded on the ground, far from home.

With no one to help him and nowhere to turn, Hubert has no choice but to put his giant skills to work where they're valued the most—on the basketball court! He joins the Droolville Dribblers, but will Hubert sink the buzzer beater and find his way home? 

This second stinky story is the first-ever chapter book series from beloved New York Times bestselling authors Chris and J. J. Grabenstein, filled with page after page of hilarious illustrations by acclaimed artist Alex Patrick. Stinky's Stories is the perfect series for young, reluctant, and emergent readers—or any kid who just loves to laugh.

Editor review

1 review
Fairy tale humor
Overall rating
 
4.7
Plot
 
5.0
Characters
 
4.0
Writing Style
 
5.0
Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)
 
N/A
What worked:
The book allows readers to use their imaginations as it presents another version of a familiar fairy tale. Many of these stories take on a whole new meaning if they’re considered from a different point of view. What if the giant is considered a victim? Jack sneaks into his home, steals his stuff, and is injured when Jack cuts down the beanstalk. Is it right to let Jack get away with his crime while the giant is killed in the fall? The characters in this book think not so the story continues by assuming the giant survives.
Stinky is a stuffed toy skunk sitting atop a library shelf. He can talk to children, along with several other stuffed friends, as long as there are no adults around to hear. Apparently, the librarian is aware of Stinky’s ability as she winks at him before leaving the room. Stinky injects himself into the fairy tale to create alternate endings to them. He encourages the children in the library, and those reading this book, to use their creativity as his new version moves along. One child recalls a detail that helps Stinky bring this story to a happy ending for the giant.
What didn’t work as well:
The Amazon listing indicates this book is for ages 6 and up but I’d bump that up a year or two. The story includes wordplay and humor that kindergarten and first graders might not understand. However, they’ll like the numerous illustrations on almost every page.
The final verdict:
This book is perfect for young and emerging readers as it begins with a familiar story. Using humor, pictures, and short chapters helps to make it more accessible for students learning to read. I recommend this book for ages 7-10 or older readers looking for a funny story to read quickly.
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