This Book Stinks!

Husband-and-wife collaborators Saint-Onge and Szpirglas (Super Switch) reteam in this tongue-in-cheek chapter book that humorously approaches the topic of book banning. Alpine Elementary School student Drita’s favorite books follow Fart Face, a superhero who battles the evil Barfbeard with the help of superpooch Poo Poo Poodle. Though the series captivates the whole school, the PTA—catching wind of the hero’s signature toilet humor—declares Fart Face a bad influence and removes the titles from school shelves. Drita, along with friends Josh and Aisha, decide to show the PTA that the books teach them about the human body via fun facts about digestion. Declarative text presents kid characters stepping up and taking charge as they exercise their agency and right to protest in an affirming novel that recalls the charm of Captain Underpants. Waterbury’s cartoony b&w illustrations depict bustling and visually exciting scenes throughout, including action-packed panels starring Fart Face. Characters are portrayed with various skin tones. Ages 6–8. (Apr.)