The Boring Days and Awesome Nights of Roy Winklesteen — The First Adventure
According to nightlifer Roy Winklesteen, daylifers have no idea what they're missing. So, when a 2 a.m. glance out his bedroom window reveals a neighbor is hiding a secret of mythic proportions, Roy's summer break looks a lot more exciting. Seeking a cure for being the most ignored kid in all of fifth grade, Roy knows an awesome adventure will surely get him noticed in middle school. He watches and waits for the perfect time to move in for a closer look at the mysterious man who lives one street over. Roy's spy mission doesn't go as planned. Still, he manages to gain access into his neighbor's world—where mind-blowing inventions are more common than furniture, and fighting crime involves transforming criminals into bumbling fools smothered in questionable goo. Every night with the neighbor brings Roy one step closer to the most daring adventure of his life. But even if he survives, he can never tell anyone about it.
Perfect for curious boys and girls who like reading about adventure, awesome inventions, friendship, and finding one's confidence.
Ages 8 to 12
Middle-grade action and adventure fiction
Key Concepts: spying, friendship, mentorship, inventions, self-confidence, bravery, and loyalty
Most people waste the night sleeping. As for the rest, they know better.
Reviews
"The Boring Days and Awesome Nights of Roy Winklesteen mixes fun with adventure and mystery. Roy and Bart have a soulful connection . . . I hope that Roy will continue having more adventures." - Zayd, Age 10, Kids' BookBuzz
"The author writes very descriptively and with a lot of fun energy, so we are never bored--very important for this age range. This book is geared toward younger readers, but I think it is written strongly enough to have a wider crossover appeal." - Laura Clarke, IBR
". . . utterly charming story, one which I would have no hesitation having my children read. It is a "clean" Middle Grade/YA action/adventure suitable for most ages, but it is definitely geared toward the younger crowd who will flock to this adventure that is as clever as it is funny. Sally Dill has a great way of writing in a believable manner with a voice that is convincing for the age group. It has a solid universal message that everyone can understand and appreciate, and it is a lot of fun to read." - Steph Coleman, IBR
"I loved the characters and the energy Ms. Dill uses. Solid and consistent world building throughout, which is really important for creating a believable story, especially if it has any 'fantastical' (or unusual) elements." - Jenna Brewster, IBR
". . . a fun, enchanting story you just want to dive into and stay lost in . . . it's been a while since I've read something with such appeal that didn't feel super cliché or something I've read a dozen times before. So rare in this genre! Sally Dill does a good job of balancing an imaginative and complex storyline that isn't confusing or frustrating or overwhelming--especially for younger readers--but is just complex enough to keep us totally hooked!" - Claire Middleton, IBR
