What do you think?
Rate this book
Dorko the Magnificent
Robbie Darko is a magician. An old-school, pull-a-rabbit-out-of-your-hat-style magician. Robbie loves magic and he’s good at it—sort of. Despite his best efforts, passion, and practice, something always goes wrong with his tricks, landing Robbie in trouble. Enter crotchety Grandma Melvyn, who calls everyone “Trixie” and complains about everything. When Grandma Melvyn moves in and takes over his room, Robbie discovers that she was once an internationally renowned magician and learns about the heartache that turned her into a bitter woman. Against all odds, Robbie and Grandma Melvyn form an uneasy alliance to show the world—or at least the kids of Hobson Elementary School—that he is a true magician. Shortly after a successful talent show, Grandma Melvyn performs a final disappearing act, and Robbie learns a little about the true meaning of magic.
Written with pitch-perfect middle-grade humor and unforgettable characters, this gem of a novel will stay with readers long after Dorko the Magnificent has taken his final bow.
Praise for Dorko the Magnificent
"A young would-be magician gets lessons in both stagecraft and life from a crusty elder... the supporting characters steal the show."
—Kirkus Reviews
"Short chapters keep the story moving. Robbie has impressive determination, but it is Grandma Melvyn who is the star in this moving story."
—Booklist
"Satisfying and enjoyable, Dorko will engage reluctant and voracious readers alike."
—School Library Journal
" A thoroughly likable middle-grade novel, offering a blend of poignancy and giggle-worthy humor, this book is a solid back-to-school read."
—The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
"Literature circles would work well with this title that deals with alienation, friendship, family, reconciliation, and death."
—Library Media Connection
Written with pitch-perfect middle-grade humor and unforgettable characters, this gem of a novel will stay with readers long after Dorko the Magnificent has taken his final bow.
Praise for Dorko the Magnificent
"A young would-be magician gets lessons in both stagecraft and life from a crusty elder... the supporting characters steal the show."
—Kirkus Reviews
"Short chapters keep the story moving. Robbie has impressive determination, but it is Grandma Melvyn who is the star in this moving story."
—Booklist
"Satisfying and enjoyable, Dorko will engage reluctant and voracious readers alike."
—School Library Journal
" A thoroughly likable middle-grade novel, offering a blend of poignancy and giggle-worthy humor, this book is a solid back-to-school read."
—The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
"Literature circles would work well with this title that deals with alienation, friendship, family, reconciliation, and death."
—Library Media Connection
224 pages, Hardcover
First published April 1, 2013
73 people are currently reading
369 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Beaty
75 books606 followersFor more information, visit my website (www.AndreaBeaty.com).
Also, visit www.Questioneers.com for posters, activities, educator resources, and other information about the Questioneer books.
Further, check out Story Time From Space to see Ada Twist and Rosie Revere read at the International Space Station by astronauts! It’s out of this world.
https://storytimefromspace.com/ada-tw...
Also, visit www.Questioneers.com for posters, activities, educator resources, and other information about the Questioneer books.
Further, check out Story Time From Space to see Ada Twist and Rosie Revere read at the International Space Station by astronauts! It’s out of this world.
https://storytimefromspace.com/ada-tw...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
November 19, 2021
An instant "best read of 2021" for me. Dorko the Magnificent by Andrea Beaty is a YA book, that I promise will transcend any age group.
Yes this is a YA book about Robbie Darko who wants nothing more in the whole world than to be a magician. Unfortunately his magic always ends up going wrong and getting him in trouble. At home his younger brother is a nuisance, his Father is away on business, his Mom is too busy and his crazy Grandma Melvyn has just moved into his bedroom.
The story is beautifully written with short chapters that move the story forward smoothly and quickly. It is a funny story in a childhood "way they look at things" funny, but I can honestly say I laughed throughout the book, sometimes laughing so much I was doubled over.
Then there were points where the story wasn't funny and suddenly Robbie is faced with sorrow and loss. Push come to shove Dorko the Magnificent is a coming of age story that touches on real life issues and lessons. Lessons about becoming who we want to be (magician or otherwise), Lessons about life. In Robbie I saw myself on so many levels and the cast of characters are so well fleshed out that they are believable, filled with depth and diversity.
This is exactly the type of story I wish I could have spent time reading to my children and grandchildren.
Dorko the Magnificent is filled with magic and I don't just mean magic of the hands in front of an audience I mean real magic. The kind of magic that can't be held, seen or quantified, but can be felt in the heart. Robbie learns that performing magic has many important things, but one day during a special performance it suddenly hits him that the most important thing about magic is "Love".
I will not be able to recommend this book enough, don't pass it up, read it alone or with the children, just read it.
Yes this is a YA book about Robbie Darko who wants nothing more in the whole world than to be a magician. Unfortunately his magic always ends up going wrong and getting him in trouble. At home his younger brother is a nuisance, his Father is away on business, his Mom is too busy and his crazy Grandma Melvyn has just moved into his bedroom.
The story is beautifully written with short chapters that move the story forward smoothly and quickly. It is a funny story in a childhood "way they look at things" funny, but I can honestly say I laughed throughout the book, sometimes laughing so much I was doubled over.
Then there were points where the story wasn't funny and suddenly Robbie is faced with sorrow and loss. Push come to shove Dorko the Magnificent is a coming of age story that touches on real life issues and lessons. Lessons about becoming who we want to be (magician or otherwise), Lessons about life. In Robbie I saw myself on so many levels and the cast of characters are so well fleshed out that they are believable, filled with depth and diversity.
This is exactly the type of story I wish I could have spent time reading to my children and grandchildren.
Dorko the Magnificent is filled with magic and I don't just mean magic of the hands in front of an audience I mean real magic. The kind of magic that can't be held, seen or quantified, but can be felt in the heart. Robbie learns that performing magic has many important things, but one day during a special performance it suddenly hits him that the most important thing about magic is "Love".
I will not be able to recommend this book enough, don't pass it up, read it alone or with the children, just read it.
March 2, 2013
Andrea Beaty's Dorko the Magnificent is the kind of middle-grade book that I love and cherish. The kind that has me giggling the whole way through, wanting to hug its characters, then hitting me with a poignant and well executed emotional punch.
Fifth grader Robbie Darko is a magician. The top hat and cape wearing, wand waving, pull a rabbit out of a hat, kind of magician. Robbie uses his magic to escape his less than ideal life: his dad travels too much for his work, his mother must work a stressful job to make ends meet, his little brother is super annoying, and he gets picked on at school. And to make matters even worse, grumpy Grandma Melvyn moves in, taking over Robbie's room. Grandma Melvyn calls everybody Trixie, has a Wicked Wobble Eye, and isn't a big fan of Robbie's. But Robbie discovers that Grandma Melvyn was once a part of a famous magic act and she agrees to give him magic lessons in preparation for the big school talent show. With some patience, understanding, and a lot of magic these two form an unlikely bond.
Dorko the Magnificent was a complete joy to read and Andrea Beaty has magic in her words. This is a quick middle-grade read, but it's stuffed with a lot of fun, humor, and heart, and its unforgettable characters shine bright.
Beaty charms with Robbie's pitch-perfect and endearing voice and she clearly knows her intended audience well. The humor is giggle inducing, yet smart, and Robbie's misadventures with Grandma Melvyn are as touching as they are amusing. Amidst all the magic, funnies, and fifth-grade woes, Beaty crafts an insightful exploration of real life issues. Beaty touches on subjects like debt, bullying, overworked parents, and death, and does so with thoughtfulness and honesty, and in a way that is both appropriate and comprehensible to young readers.
Dorko the Magnificent has a wonderful cast of colorful characters, from unstoppable, magic loving Robbie, unpredictable and witty Grandma Melvin, PB&J taco eating Cat (Robbie's BFF), to an ape of a little brother who chews on everything, and many more. These are unforgettable, lovable, and charming characters that each have of a special shine of their own.
I didn't expect this book to move and touch me so much, but it has. I'm always impressed by a book that can make me cry, but a book that can have me smiling while crying is a real gem. This book is a sparkling gem!
MY FINAL THOUGHTS: Robbie and Grandma Melvyn have cast a real spell on me and Andrea Beaty needs no wand to make real magic. Dorko the Magnificent will enchant readers of all ages and leave them laughing, thoughtful, and eager to create a little magic of their own.
Fifth grader Robbie Darko is a magician. The top hat and cape wearing, wand waving, pull a rabbit out of a hat, kind of magician. Robbie uses his magic to escape his less than ideal life: his dad travels too much for his work, his mother must work a stressful job to make ends meet, his little brother is super annoying, and he gets picked on at school. And to make matters even worse, grumpy Grandma Melvyn moves in, taking over Robbie's room. Grandma Melvyn calls everybody Trixie, has a Wicked Wobble Eye, and isn't a big fan of Robbie's. But Robbie discovers that Grandma Melvyn was once a part of a famous magic act and she agrees to give him magic lessons in preparation for the big school talent show. With some patience, understanding, and a lot of magic these two form an unlikely bond.
Dorko the Magnificent was a complete joy to read and Andrea Beaty has magic in her words. This is a quick middle-grade read, but it's stuffed with a lot of fun, humor, and heart, and its unforgettable characters shine bright.
Beaty charms with Robbie's pitch-perfect and endearing voice and she clearly knows her intended audience well. The humor is giggle inducing, yet smart, and Robbie's misadventures with Grandma Melvyn are as touching as they are amusing. Amidst all the magic, funnies, and fifth-grade woes, Beaty crafts an insightful exploration of real life issues. Beaty touches on subjects like debt, bullying, overworked parents, and death, and does so with thoughtfulness and honesty, and in a way that is both appropriate and comprehensible to young readers.
Dorko the Magnificent has a wonderful cast of colorful characters, from unstoppable, magic loving Robbie, unpredictable and witty Grandma Melvin, PB&J taco eating Cat (Robbie's BFF), to an ape of a little brother who chews on everything, and many more. These are unforgettable, lovable, and charming characters that each have of a special shine of their own.
I didn't expect this book to move and touch me so much, but it has. I'm always impressed by a book that can make me cry, but a book that can have me smiling while crying is a real gem. This book is a sparkling gem!
MY FINAL THOUGHTS: Robbie and Grandma Melvyn have cast a real spell on me and Andrea Beaty needs no wand to make real magic. Dorko the Magnificent will enchant readers of all ages and leave them laughing, thoughtful, and eager to create a little magic of their own.
January 19, 2019
Robbie Darko is a magician. Sort of. He likes magic. He's sort of good at it. He tries to show off his magic at school with disastrous results. Then suddenly the class bully starts calling him dorko. Seems like the only good in his world is his BFF Cat and his rabbit, Houdi (named after Houdini).
Enter grumpy mean Grandma Melvyn who calls everybody Trixie.
The book is a great look into very real families (a father away, a mother too busy for her kids, a crotchety grandma, annoying little brother), a great look at the emotions of a soon-to-be middle schooler (girls are yucky, finding yourself, having confidence, dealing with your own emotions while dealing with family issues, growing up, and hard work), and a great look at realizing the perserverance and hard work it takes to be a REAL magician.
I love Robbie's use of metaphors in the story. They're laugh-out-loud funny. The other great thing I love about Beaty, is that she DELIBERATELY, does not "fill dead space" in the story. Robbie's first person narrative skips over the boring bits of "this day at school, this week at home, this day at school..." and instead only focuses on the plot, which is HONESTLY, one of the first Juvenile Fiction/Middle Grade books I've read that deliberately says, 'I'm skipping the boring bits' and it works BEAUTIFULLY, so this book is really good for reluctant readers.
The book has a lot of honesty and heart, as well as its humor. This would be a good one to suggest for those kids who like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Dork Diaries, Big Nate, the James Patterson I Funny books, or any kid who wants to be a magician or performer (because this is a really good account for the "hard work pays off" attitude)
Enter grumpy mean Grandma Melvyn who calls everybody Trixie.
The book is a great look into very real families (a father away, a mother too busy for her kids, a crotchety grandma, annoying little brother), a great look at the emotions of a soon-to-be middle schooler (girls are yucky, finding yourself, having confidence, dealing with your own emotions while dealing with family issues, growing up, and hard work), and a great look at realizing the perserverance and hard work it takes to be a REAL magician.
I love Robbie's use of metaphors in the story. They're laugh-out-loud funny. The other great thing I love about Beaty, is that she DELIBERATELY, does not "fill dead space" in the story. Robbie's first person narrative skips over the boring bits of "this day at school, this week at home, this day at school..." and instead only focuses on the plot, which is HONESTLY, one of the first Juvenile Fiction/Middle Grade books I've read that deliberately says, 'I'm skipping the boring bits' and it works BEAUTIFULLY, so this book is really good for reluctant readers.
The book has a lot of honesty and heart, as well as its humor. This would be a good one to suggest for those kids who like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Dork Diaries, Big Nate, the James Patterson I Funny books, or any kid who wants to be a magician or performer (because this is a really good account for the "hard work pays off" attitude)
March 8, 2013
Not my favorite Andrea Beaty ever, due to the sort of sad family situation the main character is in, and because I wish his funny best friend Cat got a little more airtime, but it's Andrea Beaty, and I'll take it!
Read
May 7, 2019it was really cool to think about how to do all that magic
July 19, 2016
Fifth-grader Robbie Darko wants nothing more than to be a magician. Somehow, though, his tricks always end in disaster (and sometimes fire). That’s when ‘Grandma Melvyn,’ actually just a great-great aunt, moves in with his family for health reasons. She’s the number one most disagreeable and cantankerous person Robbie has ever met, spewing insults right and left, and turning him out of his own bedroom so he has to share a room with his beyond-irritating little brother. She knows magic, though, and as Robbie slowly proves his dedication to his avocation, Grandma Melvyn thaws just enough to start showing him some real tricks. Will it be enough for him to win the school talent show and not set the school on fire?
I really liked Robbie and his horrible ‘grandmother,’ and all the other characters (although Cat, wonderfully quirky as she is, is too perfect). Robbie’s family’s situation is all too believable, with his mother hating her job but needing it because Robbie’s father has been unemployed, and then getting saddled with elder care. I did think the plot was a bit predictable—if there’s an elderly mentor, you just know he or she is going to bite the dust before the end of the book—but the details of Robbie’s world and the characters made up for that. Magic isn’t something that occurs much in books (the prestidigitation kind of magic, that is), so it would be interesting to boys. I didn’t always like Robbie’s sense of humor, particularly when he was addressing the reader (challenging, dismissive, arrogant), but kids used to Greg Heffley will be right at home. Robbie’s a lot more evolved than Greg, at least—sometimes a bit too much; he did sometimes seem too wise and articulate for eleven years old. I really liked that Grandma Melvyn was a magician herself; I had automatically guessed she was a magician’s assistant, but was thrilled to have my expectations set on end.
I really liked Robbie and his horrible ‘grandmother,’ and all the other characters (although Cat, wonderfully quirky as she is, is too perfect). Robbie’s family’s situation is all too believable, with his mother hating her job but needing it because Robbie’s father has been unemployed, and then getting saddled with elder care. I did think the plot was a bit predictable—if there’s an elderly mentor, you just know he or she is going to bite the dust before the end of the book—but the details of Robbie’s world and the characters made up for that. Magic isn’t something that occurs much in books (the prestidigitation kind of magic, that is), so it would be interesting to boys. I didn’t always like Robbie’s sense of humor, particularly when he was addressing the reader (challenging, dismissive, arrogant), but kids used to Greg Heffley will be right at home. Robbie’s a lot more evolved than Greg, at least—sometimes a bit too much; he did sometimes seem too wise and articulate for eleven years old. I really liked that Grandma Melvyn was a magician herself; I had automatically guessed she was a magician’s assistant, but was thrilled to have my expectations set on end.
July 18, 2016
This was cute...would be a great read for some of my younger male reluctant readers--it's got a good, young narrative voice, lots of humor, and plenty of heart. It took me a long time to like Grandma Melvyn--which made some of the beginning not quite as fun--but I do love a good friendship between a kid and an elderly person. I also felt the magic tricks were hard to get interested in...really enjoying magic means seeing it, and reading about the tricks just doesn't do them justice.
August 3, 2014
Sweet book with more than one message. The I've I'm walking away with is "perfect misdirection"- or the need for me to be sure I'm not missing out on people like Grandma Melvyn because they misdirect me with the way they mask their pain. And that I'm meeting the real need not necessarily the flashiest one.
June 11, 2014
Very funny at times but surprisingly dark for an elementary choice... Saw ending coming but hoped I was wrong... Adults other than his grandma very lightly drawn especially mom and dad... Liked it but not what I expected from cover... Hmm...
November 11, 2014
I found myself chuckling through the first 3/4 of the book, and then was facing different emotions at the end. Sweetly funny and poignant, I truly loved reading of the mis-adventures of 5th grade Robbie and his quest for finding magic in his life.
October 25, 2025
Read to my 3rd and 4th graders. They really enjoyed it!
November 21, 2017
Middle school student Robbie Darko loves magic, but something always goes wrong with his tricks. When Grandma Melvyn moves into his house because of knee surgery, Robbie loses his room to him and must share with his hyper little brother. She might be the grumpiest senior he'd ever known, but he discovers she was an internationally renowned magician and is determined to learn from her. But can they get past their differences to make an alliance and amaze the world with magic?
I recently read this with my seven and a half year old son. He's fascinated by magic too and thought this book was hilarious. I enjoyed learning about Grandma Melvyn's past, and while we never got all the answers, Robbie did learn and grow under her tutelage. A nice message.
I recently read this with my seven and a half year old son. He's fascinated by magic too and thought this book was hilarious. I enjoyed learning about Grandma Melvyn's past, and while we never got all the answers, Robbie did learn and grow under her tutelage. A nice message.
September 6, 2022
I've grown so tired of the snarky first-person narrator. This is another one for that list. It definitely grew on me as it went along, and the way the story unfolded was satisfying. There was definitely a lack of depth to it, which left me wanting more, but for a quick read that will appeal to young readers, specifically boys (which I know is big-time in the market), this one fits the bill.
January 30, 2024
This book had always held a special place in my heart. It's a middle-grade novel, so Ifinished it in a night, but it still moved me close to tears. It could be because I'm an emotional person, but this made me feel so many things that I can't explain.
The sense of humor isn't for everyone, but it's one of my favorites.
The sense of humor isn't for everyone, but it's one of my favorites.
August 28, 2017
3.5 stars. It's a quick read with short chapters. It starts off cute and humorous and gets a little sweeter as you go along and you know there's a lesson just waiting to be uncovered, then bam somewhere around 15 or so pages left it surprises you with a punch to the gut.
May 30, 2019
This was a GREAT book, Although I did ge confused at the end..... Otherwise I loved it. I would recommend this to people (and I already have). It is fun filled and adventure I love the magic tricks he does.
August 8, 2017
We all really liked this one. I must admit after reading it I wanted to start calling everyone "Trixies"! The ending was sad but that made for some good dialogue with my 7 year old.
November 26, 2017
I loved this! See http://www.eatreadandbemommy.com/2017... for details.
March 23, 2018
What a great book! Loved the characters!
December 16, 2018
Funny and sweet. A great read for any kids into magic.
November 2, 2020
Loved it ! What a cute & funny book with a sad ending! Touching & humorous! Well written! Love this author!
December 30, 2021
A fifth grade book that I could not finish reading. I will come back in and edit review once my grandson reads this and gives me his opinion
August 6, 2014
When Robbie Darko’s grumpy Grandma Melvyn moves in to live with his family—and takes over his bedroom—Robbie can’t wait for her to leave. Yet as Robbie butts heads with her, he finds that they have more in common than he thought—she shares Robbie’s single greatest passion in life: magic tricks. As Robbie prepares for his school talent show, and Grandma Melyvn waits for knee surgery, the two become unlikely comrades—but all the practice in the world can’t prepare them for the surprises that life brings their way.
This book starts out humorous, but takes a turn toward the serious about halfway through the story, and surprised me with its depth of emotion. Themes of family, friendship, love, loss, and triumph run throughout the story, and make the book a cohesive story even when the plot takes a turn for the tearful. I enjoyed the periodic breaking of the fourth wall, where Robbie speaks directly to the reader and discusses options for making his story into a blockbuster movie. I also liked the relationship that developed between Robbie and Grandman Melvyn—like Addie on the Inside, this book portrays strong intergenerational love and respect. I think tweens will relate to Robbie’s social struggles and perspective on school and family trials.
I would hesitate a little to put this on a humor display, since the tone becomes much less humorous throughout the story. I do think it would be a great readalike suggestion for tweens who loved stories like Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. It would be a fun read-aloud, but might be emotional for some students, if they see echoes of Grandma Melvyn’s situations in their own lives—perhaps better for family reading than the classroom. It would be fun to include this book in a display with nonfiction titles about famous magicians, and performing stage magic.
This book starts out humorous, but takes a turn toward the serious about halfway through the story, and surprised me with its depth of emotion. Themes of family, friendship, love, loss, and triumph run throughout the story, and make the book a cohesive story even when the plot takes a turn for the tearful. I enjoyed the periodic breaking of the fourth wall, where Robbie speaks directly to the reader and discusses options for making his story into a blockbuster movie. I also liked the relationship that developed between Robbie and Grandman Melvyn—like Addie on the Inside, this book portrays strong intergenerational love and respect. I think tweens will relate to Robbie’s social struggles and perspective on school and family trials.
I would hesitate a little to put this on a humor display, since the tone becomes much less humorous throughout the story. I do think it would be a great readalike suggestion for tweens who loved stories like Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. It would be a fun read-aloud, but might be emotional for some students, if they see echoes of Grandma Melvyn’s situations in their own lives—perhaps better for family reading than the classroom. It would be fun to include this book in a display with nonfiction titles about famous magicians, and performing stage magic.
August 22, 2014
Fifth grader Robbie Darko wants nothing more than to be a world-class magician. Unfortunately, most of his previous tricks have either started a fire or sent an amphibian flying at the school principal’s face. On top of these career setbacks, Robbie is being forced to share a room with the little brother he calls Ape Boy so that a crazy old lady he’s somehow related to can move in. Grandma Melvyn never smiles, yells at the TV during Wheel of Fortune, calls everyone Trixie, and seems determined to make Robbie’s life miserable. But Grandma Melvyn also has a secret, one that could change Robbie’s magic act – and his life – forever.
I really enjoyed this book. Robbie is a very likable character and an inventive narrator (I especially enjoyed the part where he had the reader supply background music for the literary version of a movie montage). The story is funny but also has a lot of heart. Grandma Melvyn is a bit strange and a little selfish, but I kind of like that they didn't make her a saintly grandma figure, even at the very end. I also think there's a great message here about working hard towards a goal with the way that Robbie devotes so much time to practicing his magic tricks.
I would recommend this book for grades 3-6, especially for someone who likes funny books but wants a little more of a substantive story behind it. Readalikes might include Geeks, Girls, and Secret Identities or The Strange Case of Origami Yoda.
I really enjoyed this book. Robbie is a very likable character and an inventive narrator (I especially enjoyed the part where he had the reader supply background music for the literary version of a movie montage). The story is funny but also has a lot of heart. Grandma Melvyn is a bit strange and a little selfish, but I kind of like that they didn't make her a saintly grandma figure, even at the very end. I also think there's a great message here about working hard towards a goal with the way that Robbie devotes so much time to practicing his magic tricks.
I would recommend this book for grades 3-6, especially for someone who likes funny books but wants a little more of a substantive story behind it. Readalikes might include Geeks, Girls, and Secret Identities or The Strange Case of Origami Yoda.
April 7, 2015
A sweet, sentimental story about Robbie Darko, 5th grader and aspiring magician. He lives and breaths the stuff (but, isn't very good at it). That's when Grandma Melvyn comes to stay...now, she isn't your typical sweetness and full-of-hugs grandma, she's your smart-mouthed, loud-mouthed, sequin-wearing grandma, who calls everyone and everybody, Trixie.
At first, Robbie is mortified and angry that she's come to live with them, for many reasons, not the least of which is grandma taking over his bedroom, but as time goes on, Robbie finds that Grandma has the same love of magic that he does and she sets out to teach him a trick or two. And, she's good! Robbie later learns that she had a very successful magic show that she took on the road. However, life got in the way, and she gave up her love of the magical show business.
Working close together, with Robbie's best friend, Cat and Grandma, they learn to get along. Grandma is excited about all the new tricks and sleights-of-hand that Robbie is mastering day by day. But, then that little thing called life gets in the way again, and Robbie has to try to keep all that he's learned from grandma tucked in his heart forever.
Dorko the Magnificent is full of wise-cracking humor, lovable characters, and a realistic plot. Even when sadness comes his way, Robbie carries on, as we all do, as life takes a turn down a road we never expected.
I give this book 4 1/2 stars.
At first, Robbie is mortified and angry that she's come to live with them, for many reasons, not the least of which is grandma taking over his bedroom, but as time goes on, Robbie finds that Grandma has the same love of magic that he does and she sets out to teach him a trick or two. And, she's good! Robbie later learns that she had a very successful magic show that she took on the road. However, life got in the way, and she gave up her love of the magical show business.
Working close together, with Robbie's best friend, Cat and Grandma, they learn to get along. Grandma is excited about all the new tricks and sleights-of-hand that Robbie is mastering day by day. But, then that little thing called life gets in the way again, and Robbie has to try to keep all that he's learned from grandma tucked in his heart forever.
Dorko the Magnificent is full of wise-cracking humor, lovable characters, and a realistic plot. Even when sadness comes his way, Robbie carries on, as we all do, as life takes a turn down a road we never expected.
I give this book 4 1/2 stars.
July 20, 2015
This is the story of Robbie Darko (nicknamed Dorko by a mean kid at his school), a boy who has a penchant for magic tricks which often lead to unexpected and sometimes disastrous results. When Robbie learns that Grandma Melvyn (who is actually his great-great aunt) is coming to stay with his family for several weeks while his aunt and uncle are on an extended vacation, Robbie is at first extremely irritated. He has to give up his room, move in with his obnoxious little brother, and put up with Grandma Melvyn's "Wicked Wobble Eye" and grumpy personality. To his surprise and amazement, though, he discovers that Grandma Melvyn knows more than just a thing or two about magic, and maybe her knowledge and secrets will prove the key to making his magic act at Hobson Elementary School not just good... it'll be magnificent!
I breezed through this hilarious book within a single day, and it was fantastic! The characters were well-rounded and engaging, especially Robbie, his quirky and charming best friend Cat, the ever-unpredictable Grandma Melvyn, and more. I found myself laughing out loud at multiple points while reading this book, but it also had its fair share of heartfelt and tender moments mixed in, too. One can't help but root for Robbie in his quest to be recognized as a truly talented magician who does not deserve to be called Dorko, and this is definitely the sort of book that I would love to use as a read-aloud. Highly recommended!
I breezed through this hilarious book within a single day, and it was fantastic! The characters were well-rounded and engaging, especially Robbie, his quirky and charming best friend Cat, the ever-unpredictable Grandma Melvyn, and more. I found myself laughing out loud at multiple points while reading this book, but it also had its fair share of heartfelt and tender moments mixed in, too. One can't help but root for Robbie in his quest to be recognized as a truly talented magician who does not deserve to be called Dorko, and this is definitely the sort of book that I would love to use as a read-aloud. Highly recommended!
January 17, 2019
Robbie Darko wants to be a great magician. Last year's talent show didn't go so well so he wants to make sure this year is amazing. He tests out tricks on his family and they mostly go well though not always. But then Grandma Melvyn moves in and takes over his room. She is old and crabby and doesn't seem to like anyone. She calls everyone Trixie and isn't happy. Then she starts teaching Robbie magic. Turns out Melvyn used to be a big time magician until her partner died (and ran off with a Trixie). Robbie and Melvyn become really close and get the big act for the talent show ready to go. It is everything Robbie hoped it would be and more.
Robbie is obsessed with magic and he is really good at it. I thought he made a different character than what you see in a lot of middle grade novels. His family is pretty typical for this type of book though. Overworked or absentee parents (or both) and a strange sibling. Robbie spends a lot of the book talking to the reader as the book is told in first person, which I found a bit distracting, but I am sure kids will enjoy. The heart of the story was really Grandma Melvyn and her budding relationship with Robbie. I love multigenerational stories and this one definitely had a lot of heart. I loved how Melvyn opened up the closer she and Robbie got. I found the ending heart-breaking, but also hopeful.
Robbie is obsessed with magic and he is really good at it. I thought he made a different character than what you see in a lot of middle grade novels. His family is pretty typical for this type of book though. Overworked or absentee parents (or both) and a strange sibling. Robbie spends a lot of the book talking to the reader as the book is told in first person, which I found a bit distracting, but I am sure kids will enjoy. The heart of the story was really Grandma Melvyn and her budding relationship with Robbie. I love multigenerational stories and this one definitely had a lot of heart. I loved how Melvyn opened up the closer she and Robbie got. I found the ending heart-breaking, but also hopeful.
Want to read
February 15, 2014Think about a time when you tried your hardest at something, but it just wasn’t enough. How did it make you feel? What did you do? This book is about a young boy, Robbie, who wants to be a magician more than anything in the world. Even though he wants it, he just can’t quite make it on his own. When he is suddenly forced to share his bedroom with his grandmother, Robbie thinks his life has gone from bad to worse. Robbie is surprised to learn some new facts from his grandmother’s life that just might help him in his quest to impress the students of Hobson Elementary School.
foreshadow the problem of the story
Raise questions to spark curiosity
Activate background knowledge
Invite personal connections
This realistic fiction book is relatable to young students who have struggled with an interest or family members. The unexpected turn of events (grandma being a magician herself and being helpful instead of a nuisance) keeps the readers engaged.
(2013 June 01). School Library Journal.
http://www.booksinprint2.com.leo.lib....
foreshadow the problem of the story
Raise questions to spark curiosity
Activate background knowledge
Invite personal connections
This realistic fiction book is relatable to young students who have struggled with an interest or family members. The unexpected turn of events (grandma being a magician herself and being helpful instead of a nuisance) keeps the readers engaged.
(2013 June 01). School Library Journal.
http://www.booksinprint2.com.leo.lib....
March 30, 2015
Lexile Level: 740L
Pages: 213
Summary:
Robbie is determined to have a perfect magician act at the 5th grade talent show. He does not want his magic trick to turn into a perfect disaster like it did last year, so he is set upon practicing and practicing, so people in his class no longer call him Dorko. However, a lot of other things are happening in his life at this time too. First, his mother and father are always working, and his Grandma comes to live with him and his brother. This causes havoc in his life. First because he has to share his room with his 5 year old brother, who he nicknamed "Ape" because he jumps all over and chews on everything he finds. Also, he thinks his grandma is evil. She is never nice to him and Robbie is convinced that she hates him. Will Robbie be able to pull of the best magic trick ever or will he go bust like last year?
Recommendations:
This is a good read, for kids, especially boys, who like funny books or books about magic. However, the book is also aimed to teach kids about being held accountable for their actions and being kind to everyone even if you are not their best friends.
Reviewed By: Jen T.
Pages: 213
Summary:
Robbie is determined to have a perfect magician act at the 5th grade talent show. He does not want his magic trick to turn into a perfect disaster like it did last year, so he is set upon practicing and practicing, so people in his class no longer call him Dorko. However, a lot of other things are happening in his life at this time too. First, his mother and father are always working, and his Grandma comes to live with him and his brother. This causes havoc in his life. First because he has to share his room with his 5 year old brother, who he nicknamed "Ape" because he jumps all over and chews on everything he finds. Also, he thinks his grandma is evil. She is never nice to him and Robbie is convinced that she hates him. Will Robbie be able to pull of the best magic trick ever or will he go bust like last year?
Recommendations:
This is a good read, for kids, especially boys, who like funny books or books about magic. However, the book is also aimed to teach kids about being held accountable for their actions and being kind to everyone even if you are not their best friends.
Reviewed By: Jen T.
March 30, 2015
Lexile Level: 740L
Pages: 213
Summary:
Robbie is determined to have a perfect magician act at the 5th grade talent show. He does not want his magic trick to turn into a perfect disaster like it did last year, so he is set upon practicing and practicing, so people in his class no longer call him Dorko. However, a lot of other things are happening in his life at this time too. First, his mother and father are always working, and his Grandma comes to live with him and his brother. This causes havoc in his life. First because he has to share his room with his 5 year old brother, who he nicknamed "Ape" because he jumps all over and chews on everything he finds. Also, he thinks his grandma is evil. She is never nice to him and Robbie is convinced that she hates him. Will Robbie be able to pull of the best magic trick ever or will he go bust like last year?
Recommendations:
This is a good read, for kids, especially boys, who like funny books or books about magic. However, the book is also aimed to teach kids about being held accountable for their actions and being kind to everyone even if you are not their best friends.
Pages: 213
Summary:
Robbie is determined to have a perfect magician act at the 5th grade talent show. He does not want his magic trick to turn into a perfect disaster like it did last year, so he is set upon practicing and practicing, so people in his class no longer call him Dorko. However, a lot of other things are happening in his life at this time too. First, his mother and father are always working, and his Grandma comes to live with him and his brother. This causes havoc in his life. First because he has to share his room with his 5 year old brother, who he nicknamed "Ape" because he jumps all over and chews on everything he finds. Also, he thinks his grandma is evil. She is never nice to him and Robbie is convinced that she hates him. Will Robbie be able to pull of the best magic trick ever or will he go bust like last year?
Recommendations:
This is a good read, for kids, especially boys, who like funny books or books about magic. However, the book is also aimed to teach kids about being held accountable for their actions and being kind to everyone even if you are not their best friends.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews