The Cockroach War

by Jonathan Harlen

This hilarious prequel to Brain Scam offers great insights on insects, science, and technology as well as sibling relationships, conflicts, and cooperation. Toby and his sister Emma declare war against their neighbors, the Cadwalladers, whose noisy actions and all-night parties begin to take a toll on Toby and his family. Toby and Emma join forces with a team of cockroaches and secretly seek revenge on the Cadwalladers. What results is a funny, energetic battle.

204 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2004

About the author

Jonathan Harlen is the author of the young adult novel The Lion and the Lamb, and of other works for adults and children. He was born in Christchurch, New Zealand in 1963.

Reviews

[Rebekah Bickerton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book when I was 11 and it has stuck with me as one of the funniest, absurd and most creative stories I’ve ever read. It is witty, outrageous and made me wish I was a part of it. Thanks JH for the great memories! Can’t wait for my kids to read it.

[Neill Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Dick Cadwallader wins forty million dollars he and his family become the most obnoxious neighbors possible. Toby and Emma Judge decide to take the battle to the Cadwalladers with the most natural tools available – an army of remote control cockroaches and hornets.