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Matt Sprouts #2
Matt Sprouts and the Day Nora Ate the Sun
Matt Sprouts is back for another hilarious adventure! It’s been a few months since Matt defeated “the Curse,” and if you thought that was bad, get ready to meet Matt’s latest challenge—Nora the goat. Have you ever babysat a goat before? Trust us, you do NOT want to do it. Join Matt, his little brother Elliott, his girlfriend Grace, his best friend Eric, and a mysterious kid who lives in the forest in the HILARIOUS sequel to the bestselling book, Matt Sprouts and the Curse of the Ten Broken Toes!
After defeating “the Curse,” twelve-year-old Matt just wants to relax. But Dad has another idea—Matt needs to “build some character,” whatever THAT means. So Matt ends up a pet sitting for his neighbor, Farmer Jed. Easy enough, right?
Wrong.
In fact, it’s downright baaaaaaad.
The “pet” in question is Nora, an old goat with glassy eyes and short tail. Farmer Jed says she’s “special.” Matt’s pretty sure, however, that the most impressive thing about Nora is how far her eyes can roll into the back of her head.
While trying to keep track of Nora and all her mysterious actions, Matt is also helping his girlfriend Grace with her Science Fair project, attending both soccer and Cross-Country practice, and, oh yeah, trying to avoid some scary guy named Jason who seemingly wants to enact perilous revenge on young Matt. More on that guy later.
So much for "time to relax"!
After defeating “the Curse,” twelve-year-old Matt just wants to relax. But Dad has another idea—Matt needs to “build some character,” whatever THAT means. So Matt ends up a pet sitting for his neighbor, Farmer Jed. Easy enough, right?
Wrong.
In fact, it’s downright baaaaaaad.
The “pet” in question is Nora, an old goat with glassy eyes and short tail. Farmer Jed says she’s “special.” Matt’s pretty sure, however, that the most impressive thing about Nora is how far her eyes can roll into the back of her head.
While trying to keep track of Nora and all her mysterious actions, Matt is also helping his girlfriend Grace with her Science Fair project, attending both soccer and Cross-Country practice, and, oh yeah, trying to avoid some scary guy named Jason who seemingly wants to enact perilous revenge on young Matt. More on that guy later.
So much for "time to relax"!
304 pages, Paperback
First published September 3, 2024
11 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 11, 2024
This is the second book in the Matt Sprouts series, and I had no difficulty reading it out of order. Matt's portrayal of Nora is quite amusing, from her protruding eyes to the way one of her horn's points in the wrong direction. Even how she shows up behind him lurking with a creepy and somewhat scheming/conniving presence, is quite funny. Nora definitely possesses a will of her own and seems to want Matt to discover exactly what it is she wants. The mystery of how she escapes her pen each day is intriguing, as is all the traps that Matt and his friends set up in hopes of catching the person who might be setting her free. At least that's what they think is happening, but no one can explain how Nora gets up on the roof.
I really liked the addition of B.J., a boy Matt meets while searching in the forest for Nora. B.J. has exceptional survival skills, especially in identifying which mushrooms are edible. He's a somewhat shy kid who seems eager to make a new friend. However, Matt remains skeptical about trusting him, which explains the traps. Matt's summer gets further busy when his soccer team begins condition training and Grace enlists his help for her Science Fair project. All while Nora keeps putting on these disappearing acts.
This is quite the comical read. I can see kids who have ever worked around or are interested in farm animals relating to how challenging they can be to care for. Kids can also relate to that feeling of how even the best laid plans can change, how it's important to adapt. Overall, I loved the theme of understanding what people carry in their backpack and that everyone has something we don't know about that they're carrying. It's also a great reminder about the hazards of making assumptions, and how they can lead to making huge mistakes. *A huge thank you to Andrew's McMeel Publishing for the E-ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
I really liked the addition of B.J., a boy Matt meets while searching in the forest for Nora. B.J. has exceptional survival skills, especially in identifying which mushrooms are edible. He's a somewhat shy kid who seems eager to make a new friend. However, Matt remains skeptical about trusting him, which explains the traps. Matt's summer gets further busy when his soccer team begins condition training and Grace enlists his help for her Science Fair project. All while Nora keeps putting on these disappearing acts.
This is quite the comical read. I can see kids who have ever worked around or are interested in farm animals relating to how challenging they can be to care for. Kids can also relate to that feeling of how even the best laid plans can change, how it's important to adapt. Overall, I loved the theme of understanding what people carry in their backpack and that everyone has something we don't know about that they're carrying. It's also a great reminder about the hazards of making assumptions, and how they can lead to making huge mistakes. *A huge thank you to Andrew's McMeel Publishing for the E-ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
April 27, 2024
Hilarious and hits the spot for middle graders. Although I hadn’t read the first book I found it ok to read standalone.
I read this to my son over the course of a few evenings as part of our bedtime routine. He loved it and kept asking for one more chapter.
I reviewed Matt Sprouts and the Day Nora Ate the Sun by Matthew Eicheldinger as part of e-ARC via NetGalley.
#MattSproutsandtheDayNoraAtetheSun #NetGalley
I read this to my son over the course of a few evenings as part of our bedtime routine. He loved it and kept asking for one more chapter.
I reviewed Matt Sprouts and the Day Nora Ate the Sun by Matthew Eicheldinger as part of e-ARC via NetGalley.
#MattSproutsandtheDayNoraAtetheSun #NetGalley
August 2, 2024
The second volume in the Matt Sprouts series, Eicheldinger once again revisits the world of one of the unluckiest kids and his friends. We find Matt whole and all toes unbroken, but facing the summer where his dad wants him to “build some character” (yes, we have all been here with our parents). His dad's solution? Wake up wwwwaaaayyyyy too early and come with him to his job, mow the grass, etc. Obviously, as any good teenager would react, Matt is not happy with this plan. On top of this, on the very first day things go wrong with the most important machine at his dad's work, thanks to Matt. Lucky for him (but not really because this is Matt and he blows everything out of proportion) the tattooed Jason covers for him with his dad and gets into trouble, even though Matt tries to admit to it.
Obviously, this is not working, and ever-lucky Matt has an awesome neighbor in Farmer Jed who offers the easiest job in the world for summer, babysitting (kidsitting?, goatsitting?) his goat named Nora. What could be easier than looking after a goat, right?
Well, as Matt and the returning cast of girlfriend Grace, brother Elliot, friend Eric and a mysterious troublemaker named B.J., the crazy-eyed Nora will test Matt’s patience and create mayhem all the while Matt is dealing Grace’s Science Fair Project, soccer practice, Cross County conditioning and avoiding Jason. Just another restful time for Matt.
Eicheldinger’s latest is another fun, light mystery with the best character I have read recently. And no, I do not mean Matt. Nora will entertain, delight and teach some lessons along the way. If you have ever had a chance to be around farm animals, and especially goats, you will understand the issues Matt has with her and smile over memories of similar mysterious problems (except maybe her ending up on the roof of the house somehow…that one is still a mind boggler). Just one note for some, if you get embarrassed because of what characters are doing, do not read this book. Too often, you are yelling at Matt and trying to tell him to not do this or that as he creates more of his own problems than anyone else causing them. But, this leads to some great lessons of humanity.
If you read the first book and enjoyed it, pick this up. If you did not, you can still read this one without having read the first as the author provides enough information to be a stand-alone. A fun and laugh read with cute pictures along the way of the characters, dive in as a light read to see what trouble Matt and Nora get into together.
Obviously, this is not working, and ever-lucky Matt has an awesome neighbor in Farmer Jed who offers the easiest job in the world for summer, babysitting (kidsitting?, goatsitting?) his goat named Nora. What could be easier than looking after a goat, right?
Well, as Matt and the returning cast of girlfriend Grace, brother Elliot, friend Eric and a mysterious troublemaker named B.J., the crazy-eyed Nora will test Matt’s patience and create mayhem all the while Matt is dealing Grace’s Science Fair Project, soccer practice, Cross County conditioning and avoiding Jason. Just another restful time for Matt.
Eicheldinger’s latest is another fun, light mystery with the best character I have read recently. And no, I do not mean Matt. Nora will entertain, delight and teach some lessons along the way. If you have ever had a chance to be around farm animals, and especially goats, you will understand the issues Matt has with her and smile over memories of similar mysterious problems (except maybe her ending up on the roof of the house somehow…that one is still a mind boggler). Just one note for some, if you get embarrassed because of what characters are doing, do not read this book. Too often, you are yelling at Matt and trying to tell him to not do this or that as he creates more of his own problems than anyone else causing them. But, this leads to some great lessons of humanity.
If you read the first book and enjoyed it, pick this up. If you did not, you can still read this one without having read the first as the author provides enough information to be a stand-alone. A fun and laugh read with cute pictures along the way of the characters, dive in as a light read to see what trouble Matt and Nora get into together.
September 2, 2024
This sequel to "Matt Sprouts and the Curse of the Ten Broken Toes" lives up to all the hilarity and hijinks of the first book. You would think Matt's life would return to normal after beating the curse the previous summer, but agreeing to "goat-sit" Nora for Farmer Jed gives him another summer of unusual adventures. Besides goat-sitting, there's an adventure at his dad's work, an unexpected introduction to the cross-country team, science fair prep with his girlfriend, Grace, and the unusual kid in the woods.
As a middle grades Reading teacher, I can see my sports-loving fifth and sixth graders loving this one just as much as Book 1 -- if they don't get grossed out like Matt's little brother by his affectionate (and mostly age-appropriate) relationship with Grace. His running skill might border on unbelievable, but I loved his description of the runner's high -- a great explanation why many of us were "crazy" enough to try cross-country.
I will happily add this to my classroom library -- and can't wait for Book 3! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this eARC.
As a middle grades Reading teacher, I can see my sports-loving fifth and sixth graders loving this one just as much as Book 1 -- if they don't get grossed out like Matt's little brother by his affectionate (and mostly age-appropriate) relationship with Grace. His running skill might border on unbelievable, but I loved his description of the runner's high -- a great explanation why many of us were "crazy" enough to try cross-country.
I will happily add this to my classroom library -- and can't wait for Book 3! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this eARC.
July 30, 2024
I received an electronic ARC from Andrews McMeel Publishing through Edelweiss+.
Matt, his family and friends are back for another adventure. It's been a year since the broken toes curse and he is ready for a fun filled summer. However, his dad wants him to have a summer job. This sets off the new adventures. Matt offers to watch their neighbor's goat and Nora is special. Readers see just how unique she is as the story unfolds. Matt learns some valuable lessons about responsibility and listening to others. He makes mistakes that deeply hurt a potential new friend and has to set everything right by admitting what he did to so many people. Middle grade readers will connect with these characters and understand how easy it is to make assumptions rather than see people for who they are.
Matt, his family and friends are back for another adventure. It's been a year since the broken toes curse and he is ready for a fun filled summer. However, his dad wants him to have a summer job. This sets off the new adventures. Matt offers to watch their neighbor's goat and Nora is special. Readers see just how unique she is as the story unfolds. Matt learns some valuable lessons about responsibility and listening to others. He makes mistakes that deeply hurt a potential new friend and has to set everything right by admitting what he did to so many people. Middle grade readers will connect with these characters and understand how easy it is to make assumptions rather than see people for who they are.
January 5, 2025
This is the second book in the Matt Sprouts series, but someone could pick it up without having read the first one. My 5th graders loved the first book as a read aloud, and now this one will be added to the classroom library. There’s definitely going to be a waiting list!
What I love about these books is that the characters act true to their age, working on their relationships with one another, learning from and fixing mistakes that were made, and growing as multi-faceted people. Some parts are laugh out loud funny (even as an adult) and there’s a slight element of weirdness in the storyline that helps keep it moving. The pace is quick, too, while still developing the story, which is helpful for many middle grade readers. Looking forward to the third installment!
What I love about these books is that the characters act true to their age, working on their relationships with one another, learning from and fixing mistakes that were made, and growing as multi-faceted people. Some parts are laugh out loud funny (even as an adult) and there’s a slight element of weirdness in the storyline that helps keep it moving. The pace is quick, too, while still developing the story, which is helpful for many middle grade readers. Looking forward to the third installment!
January 27, 2025
3.5 stars. In this book, Matt Sprouts wants to chill out after breaking "The Curse." However, Matt's life likes to throw him curveballs. The curveball this time is in the form of a character-building task of getting a summer job. The job starts with mowing lawns for his dad's company. Working at his dad's company quickly devolves into chaos. Matt decides to quit and try pet sitting for Nora the goat in conjunction with his other responsibilities. The adventures ensue from there. Overall, I decided to give this series another chance. This book was much better than the first one. The story was zany and engaging.
September 11, 2024
The first entry in the Matt Sprouts series was a lot of fun and had a few interesting ideas; this second volume takes everything to a much higher level. The story is far more intriguing, weaving together multiple story threads that each could have been the basis of an individual, if shorter, book. Eicheldinger connects the seemingly disparate plot lines to reveal a bigger story containing bigger ideas than previously explored. Eicheldinger may be this generation's Judy Blume. I'm excited to see how these characters continue to develop.
October 18, 2024
Physical Book: My family also read this one together and while I got to hear more of this than the first one, I figured I’d still read it myself all the way through. I’m not sure about the other two but my 3yr old and I liked this story better than the first. It’s a little calmer (no more broken toes every other chapter) and Nora is hilarious. I also think Matt’s character becomes more likable in this one. Still great growth though, and a great lesson for kids on thinking what others are going through before just assuming something negative.
November 13, 2024
"Matt Sprouts and the Day Nora Ate the Sun," by Matthew Eicheldinger is the second in the Matt Sprouts series and is written well enough you do not have to read them in order.
Matt finds himself in a few dilemmas when his dad insists he takes on a summer job. Nora the goat turns out to be his full time job and things take a turn when Nora refuses to cooperate.
Middle grade readers will enjoy this one, as well as adults. This would make a perfect read aloud for home and classrooms. This book could be a great tool for many discussions for problem solving and so much more.
Matt finds himself in a few dilemmas when his dad insists he takes on a summer job. Nora the goat turns out to be his full time job and things take a turn when Nora refuses to cooperate.
Middle grade readers will enjoy this one, as well as adults. This would make a perfect read aloud for home and classrooms. This book could be a great tool for many discussions for problem solving and so much more.
April 20, 2024
Note: I was given a digital ARC through Edelweiss in exchange for a review.
Matt Sprouts is back! After the Curse ended, he now has to deal with a goat named Nora, a new coach, and a science fair during his summer vacation.
The first book did have a few problems, but this one was perfect! It was humorous, relatable, and one of my personal favorite books of the year. I would highly recommend this to anyone.
Looking forward to Book 3 next year!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Matt Sprouts is back! After the Curse ended, he now has to deal with a goat named Nora, a new coach, and a science fair during his summer vacation.
The first book did have a few problems, but this one was perfect! It was humorous, relatable, and one of my personal favorite books of the year. I would highly recommend this to anyone.
Looking forward to Book 3 next year!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2024
Matt Sprouts and the Day Nora Ate the Sun is a delightful and imaginative adventure filled with humor and charm. The characters, especially Matt, are endearing, and the plot is engaging with plenty of twists. While the story could have benefited from more development in parts, it’s still a fantastic read that will leave a smile on your face. Highly recommended for young readers and anyone who loves whimsical tales. I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2024
Second book in the Matt Sprout series is just charming. Middle grades summer troubles follow Matt again this year as he tries to help out Farmer Jed by goat-sitting. there's lots happening as Matt continues to try to be a track star with his soccer friends, help his girlfriend with her project, and balance his home life. There are "coming-of-age" lessons along the way. I especially liked the drawings in this story. Enjoy.
November 3, 2024
Great book! My husband and I look for books that we would enjoy as well as our 10-year-old son. We have read to him every night since the day he was born. This book has a great story line and teachable moments. it continues on from his first book that we also enjoyed. We can’t wait to start sticky notes next! Our son could easily read this book on his own, but it’s just a great way to spend time together before bed.
June 4, 2025
It kept my 13 year old son reading it all the way through in no time. He also enjoyed The Curse of the Broken Toes just prior and we have the 3rd book pre-ordered.
I listened to "Nora " on audio. Did it ever say who was letting the goat out and who was arranging the food according to the bike lock combination???? I missed it if it did. Someone tell me where to find out if it said, please!
I listened to "Nora " on audio. Did it ever say who was letting the goat out and who was arranging the food according to the bike lock combination???? I missed it if it did. Someone tell me where to find out if it said, please!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2024
Once again Matt has written a hilarious story with a solid lesson. The mystery of who is letting Nora out and the inventive places she goes along the way are perfect for young readers. Even if you haven't read the first of this series this newest book can still be enjoyed.
December 26, 2024
A silly middle-grade novel with a strange (and strangely appealing) goat that will appeal to a wide-range of readers. I liked the Colorado setting, although that was not essential to the plot. Recommended for 9-12 year-olds.
January 31, 2025
My only regret was I never quite perfected my goat scream the way I wanted to as I read this aloud to my kids. 😂Love the lessons Matt learns in this one!! And there is some mystery as well, which we loved.
January 15, 2026
Very long book that would hold the interest of its intended reader. There is one nice underlying message about how everyone has a backpack that contains good and bad traits and experiences and you never know what others are carrying.
September 8, 2024
I loved this one. Such a fun story. Even better than his first book in the series.
September 19, 2024
Fun book
February 20, 2025
Really good book! It has crazy twists and turns, so be ready. But it does have spoilers from the first book (a little bit) so beware.
September 30, 2025
Hilarious read aloud with the girls. The first book in the series develops the characters to give you some background, but you don’t necessarily have to read it before reading this one.
September 30, 2025
Matt really knows how to entertain the reader!! I used to raise goats so I can relate!
November 18, 2024
Perfect for fans of silly books with sneaky life lessons, The Day Nora Ate the Sun was so good on audio! It was full of adventure, silly moments, and a goat that was mysterious and fun.
I listened to this with my 8 year old and 11 year old and they really enjoyed it! The narrator did a great job with tone and pacing. If you like audiobooks, this was solid on audio.
Personally I loved the lesson about never knowing what someone else has in their "backpack" and being a good friend. Matt learns a lot in this book and while we have Nora the goat to add some serious mischief and satire, Matt is learning about working as a team, responsibility when he takes care of Nora, and apologizing and doing the right thing when you do something wrong.
If you are looking for a storyline that holds your kid's attention while also offering a great story for them to learn from, this is it! Thank you to Simon and Schuster audio for the ALC to enjoy!
I listened to this with my 8 year old and 11 year old and they really enjoyed it! The narrator did a great job with tone and pacing. If you like audiobooks, this was solid on audio.
Personally I loved the lesson about never knowing what someone else has in their "backpack" and being a good friend. Matt learns a lot in this book and while we have Nora the goat to add some serious mischief and satire, Matt is learning about working as a team, responsibility when he takes care of Nora, and apologizing and doing the right thing when you do something wrong.
If you are looking for a storyline that holds your kid's attention while also offering a great story for them to learn from, this is it! Thank you to Simon and Schuster audio for the ALC to enjoy!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews