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The Adventures of Pete and Weasel #1
Alligators Overhead
Alligators, witches and a spooky mansion aren't your average neighbors unless you live at the edge of the Ornofree swamp in the backwater town of Hadleyville. The town's bad boy, Pete Riley, may only be twelve, but he's up to his eyeballs in big trouble, and this time he isn't the cause. This time the trouble arrives when a legendary hundred-year-old mansion materializes next door and the Ornofree alligators declare war to save their swamp from bulldozers. Things only get worse when Pete's guardian aunt and several of her close friends vanish while trying to restore order using outdated witchcraft. Now Pete must find the witches and stop the war. He might stand a chance if his one friend, Weasel, sticks with him, but even then, they may not have what it takes.
210 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2012
12 people are currently reading
595 people want to read
About the author
C. Lee McKenzie
24 books419 followers
I’ve moved to Substack and dropped my WordPress blog. Quelle liberté! You can see all of my work on Amazon, and I'd love to connect with you on and Instagram, too!In my other life--the one before I began writing for publication--I was a teacher and administrator at California State University, San Jose. My field of Linguistics and intercultural communication has carried me to a lot of places in the world to explore different cultures and languages. I can say, “Where’s the toilet?” and “I’m lost!” in at least five languages and two dialects. Go ahead. Pat me on the back.
My idea of a perfect day is one or all of the following: starting a new novel, finishing writing a blockbuster novel, hiking on a misty morning trail in the Santa Cruz Mountains, saying Namaste after a great yoga practice, sipping a cappuccino at a bustling café, reading in front of a fire with snow outside, swimming in an ocean someplace.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 15, 2013
When Pete Riley loses his parents and is shipped off to live with his Aunt Lizzie, he doesn't think life can get much worse. Hadleytown is down-right boring. The only excitement comes from pranks and hanging with his friend Weasel. That is, things are boring until the Hadley Mansion, which hasn't been seen in 100 years, appears out of nowhere. Now Pete is hearing Harriet Hadley's voice in his head, making wishes come true, and talking to alligators. And what is all this about Aunt Lizzie being a witch?
I know, you may think that orphaned boys discovering magical powers has been done (Harry Potter anyone?). But Alligators Overhead is a delightful take on a familiar theme. Every young person is searching for identity. And while I have no personal experience, I'm sure most orphans are searching for a new sense of "home" and "family."
There are a couple of things that really made this book engaging for me. First, there doesn't seem to be a huge conspiracy among Hadleytown's witches, called "tellers," to hide. I mean, they aren't living right out in the open, but they also aren't using magic to hide themselves (unlike the great extents that wizards go to hide themselves from Muggles). They live perfectly ordinary lives - a baker, a craft shop owner, etc. This immersion feels very natural and makes the magic blend in well. It's just something they don't talk about.
Next, there is Weasel. He is not a witch (or warlock, as he so accurately points out). He's just a normal guy. And once he gets over the shock of having a warlock for a friend (although Pete's ability to wish food into existence is pretty cool), he adds real value to the story. He's not just some dippy non-magic sidekick along for the ride. Weasel is smart, probably smarter than Pete, and he uses those smarts to help his friend reason his way out of trouble. It's a partnership that works.
Perhaps one of the most delightful twists on the familiar "witches and wizards" trope are the alligators. No black cats or owls here. No, it is the alligators that serve as the familiars in Hadleytown. It is the oldest alligator, The Elder, who guides Pete through his most trying moment - the most critical point in is youthful wizard career.
All told, Alligators Overhead provides a delightful diversion for young readers and is a book that would especially appeal to boys. Pete is a friend whom they can related to, and who they can root on in his quest to save the Ornofree.
I know, you may think that orphaned boys discovering magical powers has been done (Harry Potter anyone?). But Alligators Overhead is a delightful take on a familiar theme. Every young person is searching for identity. And while I have no personal experience, I'm sure most orphans are searching for a new sense of "home" and "family."
There are a couple of things that really made this book engaging for me. First, there doesn't seem to be a huge conspiracy among Hadleytown's witches, called "tellers," to hide. I mean, they aren't living right out in the open, but they also aren't using magic to hide themselves (unlike the great extents that wizards go to hide themselves from Muggles). They live perfectly ordinary lives - a baker, a craft shop owner, etc. This immersion feels very natural and makes the magic blend in well. It's just something they don't talk about.
Next, there is Weasel. He is not a witch (or warlock, as he so accurately points out). He's just a normal guy. And once he gets over the shock of having a warlock for a friend (although Pete's ability to wish food into existence is pretty cool), he adds real value to the story. He's not just some dippy non-magic sidekick along for the ride. Weasel is smart, probably smarter than Pete, and he uses those smarts to help his friend reason his way out of trouble. It's a partnership that works.
Perhaps one of the most delightful twists on the familiar "witches and wizards" trope are the alligators. No black cats or owls here. No, it is the alligators that serve as the familiars in Hadleytown. It is the oldest alligator, The Elder, who guides Pete through his most trying moment - the most critical point in is youthful wizard career.
All told, Alligators Overhead provides a delightful diversion for young readers and is a book that would especially appeal to boys. Pete is a friend whom they can related to, and who they can root on in his quest to save the Ornofree.
November 27, 2012
I downloaded this book for fun last week after seeing the offer on the author's facebook page. I read this book in six hours. It was an absolutely adorable story and lots of fun.
Pete Riley, the young bad boy of Hadleyville, stumbles upon an unbelievable find one day when he bolted to his usual meeting spot, an empty lot next door to his aunt's house (where he's lived since the death of his parents), to meet his buddy Wilbur, a.k.a. Weasel. The whole story revolves around this boy going from troublemaker to responsible kid ... with powers. He soon finds out his aunt is a witch and he's a warlock with slowly developing powers. The best-known ladies of Hadlyville were also a clan of witches. They all had to band together to save the swamp lands and the alligators.
I must say, I always like when twists are added rather than authors writing about these common topics such as witches and magic in the same-old-same-old manner. McKenzie used alligators instead of cats, which are the animal most-commonly associated with witches. She gave the plot a meaningful "save the animals" theme, a heartwarming touch and make a scary animal like an alligator lovable. The story had a lot of adventure, from start to finish. Just enough spooky for me with the boys daring to enter the scary bewitched mansion and sneaking around at night with the mystical creatures, plotting to save the swamp. The characters were cute and very likeable. Wilber was my favorite character. He added some humor and silliness to the story with his scaredy-cat persona, love of over eating and reading. The dialogue was well written and believable; that's something I always notice early on.
I wish I had learned more about Wilbur and his family since he was my favorite character. He just seemed like a kid no one kept track of. The end was happy and wonderful, no doubt, but I had gotten so accustomed to the action scenes, I found myself expecting a sharper ending. All-in-all, I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it! It gets my 4-star rating.
Pete Riley, the young bad boy of Hadleyville, stumbles upon an unbelievable find one day when he bolted to his usual meeting spot, an empty lot next door to his aunt's house (where he's lived since the death of his parents), to meet his buddy Wilbur, a.k.a. Weasel. The whole story revolves around this boy going from troublemaker to responsible kid ... with powers. He soon finds out his aunt is a witch and he's a warlock with slowly developing powers. The best-known ladies of Hadlyville were also a clan of witches. They all had to band together to save the swamp lands and the alligators.
I must say, I always like when twists are added rather than authors writing about these common topics such as witches and magic in the same-old-same-old manner. McKenzie used alligators instead of cats, which are the animal most-commonly associated with witches. She gave the plot a meaningful "save the animals" theme, a heartwarming touch and make a scary animal like an alligator lovable. The story had a lot of adventure, from start to finish. Just enough spooky for me with the boys daring to enter the scary bewitched mansion and sneaking around at night with the mystical creatures, plotting to save the swamp. The characters were cute and very likeable. Wilber was my favorite character. He added some humor and silliness to the story with his scaredy-cat persona, love of over eating and reading. The dialogue was well written and believable; that's something I always notice early on.
I wish I had learned more about Wilbur and his family since he was my favorite character. He just seemed like a kid no one kept track of. The end was happy and wonderful, no doubt, but I had gotten so accustomed to the action scenes, I found myself expecting a sharper ending. All-in-all, I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it! It gets my 4-star rating.
August 9, 2013
Pete Riley thinks life in the swamp is incredibly boring. He's gotten quite the bad reputation trying to make things more interesting. When a mysterious 100-year old mansion appears in the empty lot next to his aunt's house, life in the swamp got a hundred times more thrilling. Ornofree Swamp is set to be demolished for a shopping complex, and the alligators want to stop it. It's weird enough talking to an alligator, but then to find out your aunt and all her old bridge friends are witches helping to save the swamp? Freaky. With his best friend Weasel to help, Pete must save the witches and the alligators or else all will be lost.
This was a tremendously fun and quirky MG urban fantasy read. It's a neat twist to the usual witch stories with the old women forming a coven and their unusual familiars. C. Lee McKenzie paints a vivid picture of a little town and the swamp around it. Pete is a lovable boy, even when he makes more trouble for himself than he intended! He's brave and funny, and though he's a bit peculiar, I can imagine children around his age would relate to how he's feeling. I particularly like Weasel, the smart best friend who gets dragged into all of Pete's schemes. Pete's aunt and all the ladies of the coven had me laughing.
And the alligators, well, you'll just have to read it to discover their part in this story!
This was a tremendously fun and quirky MG urban fantasy read. It's a neat twist to the usual witch stories with the old women forming a coven and their unusual familiars. C. Lee McKenzie paints a vivid picture of a little town and the swamp around it. Pete is a lovable boy, even when he makes more trouble for himself than he intended! He's brave and funny, and though he's a bit peculiar, I can imagine children around his age would relate to how he's feeling. I particularly like Weasel, the smart best friend who gets dragged into all of Pete's schemes. Pete's aunt and all the ladies of the coven had me laughing.
And the alligators, well, you'll just have to read it to discover their part in this story!
January 29, 2015
A series of crazy things happen to 12-year-old Pete Riley, starting with a strange telephone message, then a rumbling of the earth, followed by the magical appearance of a two-storey house with an alligator-shaped iron knocker.
Pete should know better than to interfere. Being the problematic scamp that he is, and despite his aunt warning him to stay away, he cannot resist! So he decides to investigate. From this point onwards, there is never a dull moment!
Everything about this story is charming, from the physical description of Pete with his 'angelic curl and devilish lock'; to the quaint phrases, such as 'Weasel saved Pete from going BFB' and 'CrazyWeirdTotallyWhack'; to the names of the tellers, such as Thricewater, Wartgob and Stiltencranz.
The non-stop adventure includes talking alligators, flying doughnuts (LOL), being arrested by the sheriff and chased by hunters!
You've gotta read this one!
Pete should know better than to interfere. Being the problematic scamp that he is, and despite his aunt warning him to stay away, he cannot resist! So he decides to investigate. From this point onwards, there is never a dull moment!
Everything about this story is charming, from the physical description of Pete with his 'angelic curl and devilish lock'; to the quaint phrases, such as 'Weasel saved Pete from going BFB' and 'CrazyWeirdTotallyWhack'; to the names of the tellers, such as Thricewater, Wartgob and Stiltencranz.
The non-stop adventure includes talking alligators, flying doughnuts (LOL), being arrested by the sheriff and chased by hunters!
You've gotta read this one!
November 15, 2012
C. Lee McKenzie’s mid-grade book, Alligators Overhead is a delightful, fast-paced adventure story of Pete, a 12-year old kid with a good heart but who gets into trouble without even trying (and he delights in the getting into trouble part, even if not so much the consequences of his pranks) and his grumpy but brainy sidekick, Weasel. The book has a spooky old house, witches, magick and, of course, alligators, which should please young readers age 8-14.
I really liked the storyline of this well-written book. It was also refreshing to see a professionally laid out ebook without spelling, punctuation or grammar errors to detract from the story; very well edited and nice presentation, with a cover that will be sure to entice a mid-grade reader to pick up the book. I really enjoyed this, and look forward to reading other books by this author. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
I really liked the storyline of this well-written book. It was also refreshing to see a professionally laid out ebook without spelling, punctuation or grammar errors to detract from the story; very well edited and nice presentation, with a cover that will be sure to entice a mid-grade reader to pick up the book. I really enjoyed this, and look forward to reading other books by this author. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
July 8, 2015
The town where everything takes places is called Hadleyville and couldn’t be more quirky, filled with strange rumors, scary legends, and the strangest of characters. And did I mention the town’s full of witches?
None of that is too much for our hero to handle. You might even say Peter was born to handle it. He and his friend Weasel are shocked when an entire mansion appears out of thin air in the lot next door to his home. That’s only the start of the weird goings on that plague the area. The boys will have to save the day against villains who want to develop protected swamplands. And they’ll need the help of the witches and a bunch of talking alligators to do it.
I enjoyed this fun tale of magic and mayhem. Every chapter had some new twist and element of danger that made me keep reading long after my bedtime. Highly recommended, especially for 9-12 year old boys!
None of that is too much for our hero to handle. You might even say Peter was born to handle it. He and his friend Weasel are shocked when an entire mansion appears out of thin air in the lot next door to his home. That’s only the start of the weird goings on that plague the area. The boys will have to save the day against villains who want to develop protected swamplands. And they’ll need the help of the witches and a bunch of talking alligators to do it.
I enjoyed this fun tale of magic and mayhem. Every chapter had some new twist and element of danger that made me keep reading long after my bedtime. Highly recommended, especially for 9-12 year old boys!
June 19, 2023
I love coming-of-age fantasy magical middle school books. And this one delivers. It has a unique setting, relatable characters, a creepy magical house, and alligators. It was a fun ride.
One other note-- I taught middle school for many years, and I always tried to design my lesson plans so that they were cross-curricular. This book would be fantastic to use in the classroom. It obviously can be used in reading/literature classes, but the tie-ins to science, ecology, preservation, and ecosystems are brilliant. The author does a fantastic job incorporating "Save the Earth" without being preachy at all. He gives the inhabitants of the swamp a voice, and naturally builds empathy so that the reader (students) sees the importance of saving their home and realizes that every creature deserves a peaceful and safe place to live.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads Giveaway.
One other note-- I taught middle school for many years, and I always tried to design my lesson plans so that they were cross-curricular. This book would be fantastic to use in the classroom. It obviously can be used in reading/literature classes, but the tie-ins to science, ecology, preservation, and ecosystems are brilliant. The author does a fantastic job incorporating "Save the Earth" without being preachy at all. He gives the inhabitants of the swamp a voice, and naturally builds empathy so that the reader (students) sees the importance of saving their home and realizes that every creature deserves a peaceful and safe place to live.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads Giveaway.
August 12, 2013
As an experienced adventures (fiction) reader I truly liked the story’s decent evolution. Pete and Weasel do seem familiar. I had the feeling I could have met them anywhere. They were both that real. C. Lee McKenzie lets reality meet magic (‘magick’) and you cannot help but buy into this story. I actually held my breath several times. And I was unable to put my eReader down. ;-) All characters are very convincing and fit perfectly into the plot.
C. Lee McKenzie (http://cleemckenziebooks.com/) successfully shows us the world in Hadleyville through a 12-year-old’s eyes.
A must read for all adventure fans.
I am looking forward to reading further adventures by C. Lee McKenzie.
C. Lee McKenzie (http://cleemckenziebooks.com/) successfully shows us the world in Hadleyville through a 12-year-old’s eyes.
A must read for all adventure fans.
I am looking forward to reading further adventures by C. Lee McKenzie.
October 3, 2012
I was so excited to read Alligators Overhead because it was my first givaway win from Goodreads first reads. I danced at my mailbox when it arrived and, to make it even better, it was autographed.
I really enjoyed the book. It wasn't the most compelling story I have ever read, but it was a book that I've been looking for. My fifth graders are a big fans of suspenseful books, but I want to push them beyond Goosebumps books. Alligators Overhead is much meatier and more satisfying than a Goosebumps book. I really enjoyed the story and I can't wait to share it with my class.
I really enjoyed the book. It wasn't the most compelling story I have ever read, but it was a book that I've been looking for. My fifth graders are a big fans of suspenseful books, but I want to push them beyond Goosebumps books. Alligators Overhead is much meatier and more satisfying than a Goosebumps book. I really enjoyed the story and I can't wait to share it with my class.
December 7, 2018
Great middle grade reader
What a fantastic story!
Pete and Weasel have an affinity for finding trouble. Over Spring Break they find some major trouble. The Hadley Mansion that had mysteriously disappeared a century earlier has reappeared! After finding themselves trapped in its ceiling, they learn that Pete's Aunt Lizzie and 11 others of the town's elder ladies are actually witches. And it appears Pete is beginning to harness some magick of his own. In this adventure, Pete, Weasel, and the Hadleyville witches need to save the Ornofree swamp and it's alligators from commercialization.
This is a great choice of book for any middle grade reader who enjoys fantasy tales. It will especially appeal to those who enjoy A Series of Unfortunate Events.
*I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway. The review is my own,honest and unsolicited.
What a fantastic story!
Pete and Weasel have an affinity for finding trouble. Over Spring Break they find some major trouble. The Hadley Mansion that had mysteriously disappeared a century earlier has reappeared! After finding themselves trapped in its ceiling, they learn that Pete's Aunt Lizzie and 11 others of the town's elder ladies are actually witches. And it appears Pete is beginning to harness some magick of his own. In this adventure, Pete, Weasel, and the Hadleyville witches need to save the Ornofree swamp and it's alligators from commercialization.
This is a great choice of book for any middle grade reader who enjoys fantasy tales. It will especially appeal to those who enjoy A Series of Unfortunate Events.
*I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway. The review is my own,honest and unsolicited.
June 19, 2018
I appreciate that I'm way outside of the target audience for this book, so I'm going to rate it as if I'd read it 60-some years ago. As a kid, I'm sure I would've loved it. Witches, talking alligators, a smelly swamp and a prank-pulling 12-year old who has to come to the rescue? What kid wouldn't love it?
As an adult, I also like that the writing is good and the author doesn't dumb down the vocabulary and may, in fact, teach kids a few new words. There's also a satisfying underlying tale of conservation vs. development that may give young readers food for thought without beating them over the head with it. (Sneaky education.. I like that!)
All-in-all, I think this is a series young people between the ages of 10 and 12, or so... especially young boys... would love.
As an adult, I also like that the writing is good and the author doesn't dumb down the vocabulary and may, in fact, teach kids a few new words. There's also a satisfying underlying tale of conservation vs. development that may give young readers food for thought without beating them over the head with it. (Sneaky education.. I like that!)
All-in-all, I think this is a series young people between the ages of 10 and 12, or so... especially young boys... would love.
September 19, 2019
This would be a cute read for middle graders who like a little bit of adventure with a little bit of a paranormal tone. Pete and his friend Weasel become involved in helping to save the swamp and its resident alligators when they stumble upon an old house that suddenly appears next to his grandmother's. It seemed the house had disappeared a hundred years ago and no one is quite sure why it's suddenly back until they find out that the town's mayor is wanting to fill the swamp in. So, there's not only a fun side to the story but also an environmental message. All in all, an entertaining read.
April 15, 2018
Pleasantly surprised by this book! (I honestly did not have high hopes from the title.) But the characters are well-defined and relatable (my son is most definitely a Weasel, always befriending the Petes of the world, the plot is fully resolved (in 2 pages), and it is a fast-paced, fun-filled (and gator-filled) read. I think that in a few years, when my kids are a little older (ages 2 and 5 right now), they will really enjoy this bewitching tale!
March 4, 2020
A fun adventure
The first of three books about the adventures of Pete and Weasel, Alligators Overhead is a fun read for young people ages 8-13. Witches, a haunted house and friendly alligators plus a protagonist and his brainy friend who manage to stay out trouble just long enough to save the Onofre Swamp make it a compelling story.
The first of three books about the adventures of Pete and Weasel, Alligators Overhead is a fun read for young people ages 8-13. Witches, a haunted house and friendly alligators plus a protagonist and his brainy friend who manage to stay out trouble just long enough to save the Onofre Swamp make it a compelling story.
January 22, 2021
Alligators overhead!
Pete and Weasel are bred, or rather Pete is bored. Mischief usually follows that mood and then comes trouble. Pete lives with his Aunt Lizzie in what he calls a backwoods town at the edge of a swamp. One day the gossips in town learn the the mysterious manor that disappeared a century what returned. Scouting out the place puts the two boys in the midst of a serious confrontation between his aunt and friends versus the mayor who would destroy the swamp and alligators too. Why did the house return, what part do the alligators have in a spell gone wrong? Wonderful middle school age and older book. The author has an incredible set of witches and their familiars solving problems, accepting responsibility and even wild alligators pull their weight!
Pete and Weasel are bred, or rather Pete is bored. Mischief usually follows that mood and then comes trouble. Pete lives with his Aunt Lizzie in what he calls a backwoods town at the edge of a swamp. One day the gossips in town learn the the mysterious manor that disappeared a century what returned. Scouting out the place puts the two boys in the midst of a serious confrontation between his aunt and friends versus the mayor who would destroy the swamp and alligators too. Why did the house return, what part do the alligators have in a spell gone wrong? Wonderful middle school age and older book. The author has an incredible set of witches and their familiars solving problems, accepting responsibility and even wild alligators pull their weight!
June 30, 2016
Basic Magical Action, With Some Clever and AppealingTouches
The plot here is pretty straightforward, and the author doesn't break any new ground. But, the story is well told, the characters are engaging, the narrative is brisk and economical, and there are a number of clever and touching angles that set the book above average, and that led me to believe that this would be an excellent book with which to introduce magical-fantasy-adventure to a younger middle grade reader.
MILD PLOT SPOILERS. Our hero Pete is an orphan, (parents died in a plane crash), who is living with Aunt Lizzie, his Mom's sister. Pete has been uprooted from the big city to live in nowhere-ville with Lizzie, on the edge of Ornofree Swamp, (which feels like a smaller swampier version of Okefenokee). Pete has a best friend, which helps, but out of boredom and out of resentment over his parents' deaths he is something of a discipline problem, with some mild acting out. The Pete we meet at the beginning of the book isn't very appealing, and one begins to fear that this is going to be a low-key, low stakes "problem" book. Not to worry.
Early on the book takes off when a house that disappeared a hundred years before suddenly reappears right smack next to Lizzie's house. "O.K.", you say; this is starting to pick up steam. In short order we learn the history of the disappeared/reappeared house, we go exploring the haunted mystery house, and we find out that there's a lot of magic and witchy stuff going on around the neighborhood. We also lose Pete-the-bad-boy and start moving into Pete-the-eventual hero territory. From here on there will be more adventure, a task for Pete, a rescue or two, a confrontation with some pretty bland bad guys and a resolution.
As I say, none of this is genre bending, but it is done well, and done with a consistent tone. (That is, it isn't jokey and then grisly and then romantic and then violent and then other-wordly and so on.) This is a mystery quest, self-discovery, hero story set in a magical swamp. The story is told straight up, with no winkiing irony and no attempt to make hip fun of the tale.
Indeed, what seems at first blush to be a bit precious - the active involvement of walking, talking alligators - turns out to be the smartest, most appealing, and most engagingly novel part of the book. Witches need familiars, and having witches who live by a swamp use alligators as familiars is a great idea. The alligators here pretty much steal the show. Different alligator characters come across as wise, funny, regal or at least diverting. The Elder alligator, (they don't like "gator"), passes the James Earl Jones test; if this were an animated film he would be voiced by James Earl Jones. That pretty much says it all.
So, my bottom line is that I would be happy to give this to a younger reader who expressed interest in magical adventure. It is clear, briskly narrated, propped up with a bit of exposition where it might be confusing, populated by recognizable characters, and energized by an alligator angle that works very well. Fine by me.
(Please note that I found this book a while ago while browsing books that were at the time Amazon Kindle freebies. I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book, although I did once get a nice comment from the author regarding my review of a different book.)
The plot here is pretty straightforward, and the author doesn't break any new ground. But, the story is well told, the characters are engaging, the narrative is brisk and economical, and there are a number of clever and touching angles that set the book above average, and that led me to believe that this would be an excellent book with which to introduce magical-fantasy-adventure to a younger middle grade reader.
MILD PLOT SPOILERS. Our hero Pete is an orphan, (parents died in a plane crash), who is living with Aunt Lizzie, his Mom's sister. Pete has been uprooted from the big city to live in nowhere-ville with Lizzie, on the edge of Ornofree Swamp, (which feels like a smaller swampier version of Okefenokee). Pete has a best friend, which helps, but out of boredom and out of resentment over his parents' deaths he is something of a discipline problem, with some mild acting out. The Pete we meet at the beginning of the book isn't very appealing, and one begins to fear that this is going to be a low-key, low stakes "problem" book. Not to worry.
Early on the book takes off when a house that disappeared a hundred years before suddenly reappears right smack next to Lizzie's house. "O.K.", you say; this is starting to pick up steam. In short order we learn the history of the disappeared/reappeared house, we go exploring the haunted mystery house, and we find out that there's a lot of magic and witchy stuff going on around the neighborhood. We also lose Pete-the-bad-boy and start moving into Pete-the-eventual hero territory. From here on there will be more adventure, a task for Pete, a rescue or two, a confrontation with some pretty bland bad guys and a resolution.
As I say, none of this is genre bending, but it is done well, and done with a consistent tone. (That is, it isn't jokey and then grisly and then romantic and then violent and then other-wordly and so on.) This is a mystery quest, self-discovery, hero story set in a magical swamp. The story is told straight up, with no winkiing irony and no attempt to make hip fun of the tale.
Indeed, what seems at first blush to be a bit precious - the active involvement of walking, talking alligators - turns out to be the smartest, most appealing, and most engagingly novel part of the book. Witches need familiars, and having witches who live by a swamp use alligators as familiars is a great idea. The alligators here pretty much steal the show. Different alligator characters come across as wise, funny, regal or at least diverting. The Elder alligator, (they don't like "gator"), passes the James Earl Jones test; if this were an animated film he would be voiced by James Earl Jones. That pretty much says it all.
So, my bottom line is that I would be happy to give this to a younger reader who expressed interest in magical adventure. It is clear, briskly narrated, propped up with a bit of exposition where it might be confusing, populated by recognizable characters, and energized by an alligator angle that works very well. Fine by me.
(Please note that I found this book a while ago while browsing books that were at the time Amazon Kindle freebies. I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book, although I did once get a nice comment from the author regarding my review of a different book.)
August 9, 2013
Middle Grade readers are in for a treat with Alligators Overhead by author C. Lee McKenzie. Take one twelve-year-old who seems to be constantly losing the battle to be good and stay out of mischief, give him a brainy, not-so-adventurous sidekick and a town full of out-of-practice witches, and you have a fun read full of misadventure. Toss in the witches’ familiars, a swamp and an underhanded politician and you have the makings of even more trouble for young Pete and his buddy Weasel. Did I mention the old mansion that appears out of nowhere, right after Pete was dreaming about it? Pete is about to go on the adventure of his life, getting into more trouble than even HE could have dreamed of! (And he thought the small town of Hadleyville was boring!)
From page one, I adored Pete and Weasel! C. Lee McKenzie nailed their characters perfectly! I admired Weasel’s loyalty to Pete, who really doesn’t mean to cause trouble, it just “happens!” And talk about surprises, there is more magic in the air at every turn and all points lead to Pete, who just may become the hero he has always wanted to be!
Written in an easy to follow style, full of humorous moments, spooky moments and even a few heart-warming moments, Middle Grade readers will enjoy the fast pace and twists, the antics of Pete and Weasel and the fantasy of magic. Just watch out for the Alligators Overhead, they’re really there!
I received a review copy of Alligators Overhead from Story Cartel and C. Lee McKenzie in exchange for my honest review.
Available from: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
Publication Date: June 29, 2012
Publisher: Outskirts Press, Inc.
ISBN: 1432784730
Number of Pages: 218
Genre: Fantasy/Adventure-Middle Grade
My rating: 5 stars
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
From page one, I adored Pete and Weasel! C. Lee McKenzie nailed their characters perfectly! I admired Weasel’s loyalty to Pete, who really doesn’t mean to cause trouble, it just “happens!” And talk about surprises, there is more magic in the air at every turn and all points lead to Pete, who just may become the hero he has always wanted to be!
Written in an easy to follow style, full of humorous moments, spooky moments and even a few heart-warming moments, Middle Grade readers will enjoy the fast pace and twists, the antics of Pete and Weasel and the fantasy of magic. Just watch out for the Alligators Overhead, they’re really there!
I received a review copy of Alligators Overhead from Story Cartel and C. Lee McKenzie in exchange for my honest review.
Available from: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
Publication Date: June 29, 2012
Publisher: Outskirts Press, Inc.
ISBN: 1432784730
Number of Pages: 218
Genre: Fantasy/Adventure-Middle Grade
My rating: 5 stars
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
August 25, 2012
What happens when you mix witches and warlocks, a mansion and alligators, mental telepathy and two twelve-year-old boys on a mission? You end up with an adventure, a mystery, a cast of unique characters, and a whole new attitude about alligators, that’s what.
ALLIGATORS OVERHEAD, Author C. Lee McKenzie’s novel for mg/tween readers, takes the reader on a fast paced, never dull journey with Peter Riley and his friend Weasel in their attempts to save the Ornofree Swamp from being destroyed. On the way to achieve their goal, the boys explore a mansion that vanished years ago, but suddenly appears on the vacant lot by Pete’s Aunt Lizzie’s house. (He came to live with his aunt after his parents died.) They meet witches also on a mission to save the swampland, hunters determined to capture the alligators, and have to right a witch’s spell that goes terribly wrong. As Pete and Weasel struggle to solve each problem, confidence in their abilities grows and each boy discovers strengths in himself to carry on, in spite of the danger they face.
The characters in ALLIGATORS OVERHEAD are well developed each with his/her own distinct personality. Aunt Lizzie’s way of doubling up words like “eerie-bad” for example, Weasel’s intelligence and caution, and Pete’s discovery of who he really is bring the characters to life, like real people, although with powers that no mortal has. Oh, and if you’re like I was at first, and alligators are not your favorite critter, I think after you read C. Lee McKenzie’s story, you’ll have a different opinion about the scaly creatures. Now, I like alligators, especially Fanon. I’ll still keep my distance from them, however. This novel would make a great addition for school libraries, public libraries, and your own private library.
ARC EBook courtesy of the author.
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ALLIGATORS OVERHEAD, Author C. Lee McKenzie’s novel for mg/tween readers, takes the reader on a fast paced, never dull journey with Peter Riley and his friend Weasel in their attempts to save the Ornofree Swamp from being destroyed. On the way to achieve their goal, the boys explore a mansion that vanished years ago, but suddenly appears on the vacant lot by Pete’s Aunt Lizzie’s house. (He came to live with his aunt after his parents died.) They meet witches also on a mission to save the swampland, hunters determined to capture the alligators, and have to right a witch’s spell that goes terribly wrong. As Pete and Weasel struggle to solve each problem, confidence in their abilities grows and each boy discovers strengths in himself to carry on, in spite of the danger they face.
The characters in ALLIGATORS OVERHEAD are well developed each with his/her own distinct personality. Aunt Lizzie’s way of doubling up words like “eerie-bad” for example, Weasel’s intelligence and caution, and Pete’s discovery of who he really is bring the characters to life, like real people, although with powers that no mortal has. Oh, and if you’re like I was at first, and alligators are not your favorite critter, I think after you read C. Lee McKenzie’s story, you’ll have a different opinion about the scaly creatures. Now, I like alligators, especially Fanon. I’ll still keep my distance from them, however. This novel would make a great addition for school libraries, public libraries, and your own private library.
ARC EBook courtesy of the author.
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August 6, 2012
Alligator Overhead is like Savvy meets Hoot
Just imagine: A cast that include two boys, a coven of witches, some talking alligators, and a small town full of loony characters, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect middle grade book.
Pete Riley is all boy: he knows he shouldn’t do something, but then that devil whispers in his head, and suddenly he finds himself in the midst of a war between the town folks, some developers, and a swamp that needs protection. I really enjoyed the plot twists the author came up with. Every time I thought the plot was going one way, she whipped it out from under my feet. Non-stop adventure from the first word to the final scene. And let me say right here: the ceiling scene blew my mind. How on earth did she ever think of that!
But there were also some touching moments, too. Every time Pete Riley would recall his parents, I wanted to hug the boy and tell him it would be okay. Talk about ripping at your heart. Yeah, thanks, C. Lee MacKenzie, for making me tear up like that.
Beside oh-so-real-they-walked-off-the-page characters and a plot that twisted and turned like a swamp snake, I really enjoyed MacKenzie’s writing. Like her YA novels that I still rave about, The Princess of Las Pulgas and Sliding on the Edge, she writes with a lyrical style that is so subtle, and yet so strong, I found myself re-reading many scenes just to relish her artistry with the written word. As an author, I kept having tinges of jealousy.
The ending made me cheer, both for how she wrapped it up and because she left the door open for a sequel
Hats off to C. Lee MacKenzie, for another awesome book. I really hope she’s working on that sequel. I want more of Pete’s adventures.
Just imagine: A cast that include two boys, a coven of witches, some talking alligators, and a small town full of loony characters, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect middle grade book.
Pete Riley is all boy: he knows he shouldn’t do something, but then that devil whispers in his head, and suddenly he finds himself in the midst of a war between the town folks, some developers, and a swamp that needs protection. I really enjoyed the plot twists the author came up with. Every time I thought the plot was going one way, she whipped it out from under my feet. Non-stop adventure from the first word to the final scene. And let me say right here: the ceiling scene blew my mind. How on earth did she ever think of that!
But there were also some touching moments, too. Every time Pete Riley would recall his parents, I wanted to hug the boy and tell him it would be okay. Talk about ripping at your heart. Yeah, thanks, C. Lee MacKenzie, for making me tear up like that.
Beside oh-so-real-they-walked-off-the-page characters and a plot that twisted and turned like a swamp snake, I really enjoyed MacKenzie’s writing. Like her YA novels that I still rave about, The Princess of Las Pulgas and Sliding on the Edge, she writes with a lyrical style that is so subtle, and yet so strong, I found myself re-reading many scenes just to relish her artistry with the written word. As an author, I kept having tinges of jealousy.
The ending made me cheer, both for how she wrapped it up and because she left the door open for a sequel
Hats off to C. Lee MacKenzie, for another awesome book. I really hope she’s working on that sequel. I want more of Pete’s adventures.
September 5, 2012
Alligators Overhead by C. Lee McKenzie is a mysterious adventure that will keep you guessing. Pete may like to get into trouble, but he is a typical 12 year-old with a best friend who tries to keep him doing the right thing. Poor Weasel! He gets a little frustrated trying to keep them both from getting into serious trouble. I think kids between the ages of 8 and 14 will love this book if they like old houses, witches, animals, and nature. Pete is a good main character because his desire to do the wrong thing often leads him into a situation that is entertaining for the reader. I think Pete has a good heart, but his life hasn’t been easy so far. Now that he has learned a bit more about his past and his present he will be growing up a little faster, whether he wants to or not. I liked that the book had fantasy and mystery mixed together because it kept the possibility open that anything could happen. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading others by this author.
December 3, 2019
Alligators Overhead begins as you meet Pete Riley, a 12-year-old who is always getting in trouble, but it isn't always his fault. He soon begins to learn that there is a lot more going on in the swampy town of his than just a bunch of pranks.
In a book that starts out as a seemingly realistic fiction novel about a troublesome young boy turns out to be a fantasy novel where the real problem is the lack of respect for the Ornofree Swamp that surrounds the sleep town of Hadleyville. And suddenly the town's bad boy is the only person that can save the town.
At first I was a bit taken aback by the switch of genres- I didn't see it coming- but once I realized what the true focus was of the book, I jumped right in and ended up really enjoying the book. It is like a Hiaasen book, but with witches with alligators for familiars.
Mentor text for: Characterization, Suspense, Allusion
Snatch of text: pg. 13, 80
In a book that starts out as a seemingly realistic fiction novel about a troublesome young boy turns out to be a fantasy novel where the real problem is the lack of respect for the Ornofree Swamp that surrounds the sleep town of Hadleyville. And suddenly the town's bad boy is the only person that can save the town.
At first I was a bit taken aback by the switch of genres- I didn't see it coming- but once I realized what the true focus was of the book, I jumped right in and ended up really enjoying the book. It is like a Hiaasen book, but with witches with alligators for familiars.
Mentor text for: Characterization, Suspense, Allusion
Snatch of text: pg. 13, 80
August 10, 2013
My Thoughts - 3 out of 5 unicorns - I liked it!!
**Received the ebook free through Story Cartel for an honest review.
Both the cover and title will attract boys who like alligators which is all the rage on many TV show themes.
I liked that story, but there were parts I thought were slow. However, I think a middle school boy interested in alligators would love this story, and I will probably re-read this story with my son if we have time. The story’s main character is Pete who is a troubled orphan being cared for by his aunt. There are lots of secrets that he is unaware of, but start unraveling when a mysterious mansion appears in the empty lot next to his house. The story contains alligators of course, a swamp, mystery, magic, best friends, trouble making, floating donuts, and so much more.
I recommend this to alligator loving boys in middle school.
**Received the ebook free through Story Cartel for an honest review.
Both the cover and title will attract boys who like alligators which is all the rage on many TV show themes.
I liked that story, but there were parts I thought were slow. However, I think a middle school boy interested in alligators would love this story, and I will probably re-read this story with my son if we have time. The story’s main character is Pete who is a troubled orphan being cared for by his aunt. There are lots of secrets that he is unaware of, but start unraveling when a mysterious mansion appears in the empty lot next to his house. The story contains alligators of course, a swamp, mystery, magic, best friends, trouble making, floating donuts, and so much more.
I recommend this to alligator loving boys in middle school.
August 10, 2013
When twelve-year-old, recently orphaned Pete arrives at his Aunt Lizzie's house to live in the little town of Hadleyville on the edge of Ornofree swamp, fought boredom by getting into mischief. Not alone, though, because he dragged his buddy Weasel along with him as a reluctant partner. When a 100-year old mansion suddenly appears in the empty lot next door to Aunt Lizzie's house, life for Pete, Weasel and others gets downright scary. Not only that, there's a plan (conspiracy?) afoot to drain part of the swamp and turn it into a shopping mall.
Who can safe it? Why, Pete, of course. "Who, me?"
This is an engaging story about two twelve-year-old boys, a ghost or two, witches, an alligator tribe, a possible crime, a reluctant warlock and his friend. Great for the age group it is written for. I enjoyed reading it very much.
Who can safe it? Why, Pete, of course. "Who, me?"
This is an engaging story about two twelve-year-old boys, a ghost or two, witches, an alligator tribe, a possible crime, a reluctant warlock and his friend. Great for the age group it is written for. I enjoyed reading it very much.
August 24, 2012
Want a wild, swampy adventure? One that involves alligators and witches, one town troublemaker and his brainiac companion? How about a mysterious mansion that pops up after being gone for a hundred years? If escape into a fantastic world where all of those oddities exist and where all things are possible, then Alligators Overhead is the read for you.
I enjoyed the quirky town characters and the fast-paced adventure that pitted the alligators against the bulldozer and sent the main character scrambling to save everybody, including himself.
This is a great read for kids who like some spooky fun.
January 11, 2013
I won a copy through the Goodread's Firstreads program.
This is one of those 'cute' stories. A nice twist on your typical witchy business. For younger kids, this might be amazing, but it really moves in a boring way to the more avid reader.
The main character Pete Riley is a troublemaker who grows responsible and has latent genetic powers. Animal lovers unite is another underlying theme, and backyard adventure to boot. The ending is not wonderful, and basically I will probably forget about this book as soon as I finish reviewing.
Overall, it's not a bad read, just not remarkable.
This is one of those 'cute' stories. A nice twist on your typical witchy business. For younger kids, this might be amazing, but it really moves in a boring way to the more avid reader.
The main character Pete Riley is a troublemaker who grows responsible and has latent genetic powers. Animal lovers unite is another underlying theme, and backyard adventure to boot. The ending is not wonderful, and basically I will probably forget about this book as soon as I finish reviewing.
Overall, it's not a bad read, just not remarkable.
January 20, 2013
Pete is a rambunctious twelve-year-old boy living with his Aunt Lizzie after his parents’ deaths. Odd things occur in the small town he now calls home. A mansion materializes next to his house, he’s hearing voices, and he learns witches surround him. The witches aren’t bad though, because along with Pete and his best friend, Weasel, they’d like to save the Ornofree Swamp and its alligators from destruction. I enjoyed Pete and Weasel’s friendship, Pete’s budding powers, and the other magical elements in this book. ALLIGATORS OVERHEAD is a fun, action-packed middle-grade novel.
November 4, 2012
Alligators Overhead is a book for middle graders, but I am adult (probably twice over). I won a copy of the book and started reading it soon after.
It sucked me right in and I was that age again, right there with Pete and Weasel.They are so true to life. It had me on the edge of my seat most of the way through, especially toward the end. It is a great book to read with your middle graders, or even older.
A fantastic adventure tucked between the pages of this book and I highly recommend it.
It sucked me right in and I was that age again, right there with Pete and Weasel.They are so true to life. It had me on the edge of my seat most of the way through, especially toward the end. It is a great book to read with your middle graders, or even older.
A fantastic adventure tucked between the pages of this book and I highly recommend it.
May 14, 2016
Pete's bored, but life is about to get a lot more interesting and all starts with a dream. Haunted mansions, witches, alligator's all mixed with local hi-jinx. along with greedy developers, and a city council that may or may not have the community's best interest at heart. I was intrigued by the title and I was not disappointed. The story delivered, very imaginative and unusual take on alligator's with lots of adventure and trouble, Definitely worth a read.
October 24, 2012
This is a very enjoyable read. It's got a swamp, alligators, witches, and plenty of mysterious happenings. What more could you want? Oh yeah, a boy who seems to be always getting into trouble, it's got that too. But is the trouble he gets into always HIS fault? You'll have to read this charming and humorous story to find out.
September 10, 2012
Cute middle grade read filled with some great quirky characters. Witches, talking alligators, a creepy swamp and two great main characters that will be loved by both the male and female readers out there. I am not sure if this is the start of a series, but I would love to see more books. I definitely recommend this one for any adventure loving middle grade readers out there!
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