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Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Author Paul Maitland brings readers yet another enthralling installment in the Nobody's a Nothin' children's book series with Buds and Scuds. Still enjoying the high of winning the cross-country championship last fall, all Corey "Zip" Zilch can think about now is inventing an April Fool's joke to prank his fellow Buds. However, when Principal Farraday forces Corey to spy for him and the Scuds' leader, Noford, discovers his scheme, Corey unwittingly finds himself becoming a double agent. Meanwhile, Sarah is upset with Corey after she sees Justine kissing him. To complicate matters further, his parents are taking in foster kids, and one of them turns out to be the biggest bully in Hanway Middle School, who everyone thinks is either dead or missing. To win this year's championship, Corey will have to beat one of his closest friends.
Full of heart and charm, Buds and Scuds is a captivating tale about a young boy navigating middle school, girls, friendship, and home life. Corey's character development was one of the highlights for me. Our young hero learns about sportsmanship, as well as that even bullies are human and can have complicated lives. Author Paul Maitland is a master at capturing the emotions and feelings of young people, and this story is no different. Whether it is Corey's intricate relationship dynamics with his parents or his evolving friendships, every interaction feels genuine. There's also plenty of humor in the narrative to keep young readers entertained. One of my favorite scenes was the disaster at the cafeteria and its escalating consequences. Preteens and young teenagers will love this book.
