Jack the Tripper    by Gene Barretta Order:  USA  Can Harcourt, 2008 (2008) Hardcover Read an Excerpt     Reviewed by Hilary Daninhirsch Something strange is going on at Benjamin Dizzie Elementary School: there is a serial tripper on the loose. It all started when Polly showed up breathless for class, claiming that, out of the blue, she had been tripped by a mysterious stranger, who snatched her extra long book report. Seeing the concern and sympathy bestowed upon Polly, other children begin claiming that the tripper committed such atrocities as eating the candy that was supposed to be served at the annual Dizzie Day parade, and causing general mayhem. When the headmaster considers canceling the Dizzie Day parade in order to keep the children safe from Jack the Tripper (as he is named), the children start confessing, one by one, that they liked the attention, and that no such tripper really exists - or does he? This moderately amusing and somewhat mysterious picture book is accompanied by intentionally exaggerated illustrations. The sharp-eyed reader will find silly details throughout, such as pictures on the wall that seem lifelike, and Polly appropriately dressed as Pinocchio. In all, Jack the Tripper is a light and entertaining read. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews