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Mo, Lottie and the Junkers
Mo Appleby's ordered life is turned upside down when he and his mum move in with his new stepdad and stepsisters, Lottie and Sadie. The home he left behind is just across the street, and there's something not quite right about the new occupant. Other strange new people keep popping into his life, too: a bonkers lollipop man and a boy called Jax, who seems to understand Mo better than anyone else, especially Lottie. Who are the weird new people in their town? Do they have any involvement in the disappearance of Mo's dad many years ago? And why does the ice cream taste so good? Lottie is determined to find out exactly what's going on, even if it makes Mo mad, and even if it leads them both into serious danger...
220 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published April 18, 2019
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27 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 7, 2019
Holy Mo-ly, this was a whole Lottie fun (sorry!).
Jennifer Killick has created the craziest of characters in the weirdest of goings-on. An utterly unique story told with so much humour and heart. LOVED IT!
I'm keeping my eyes open for the terrifying Junkers - and for ice cream vans!!
Jennifer Killick has created the craziest of characters in the weirdest of goings-on. An utterly unique story told with so much humour and heart. LOVED IT!
I'm keeping my eyes open for the terrifying Junkers - and for ice cream vans!!
April 13, 2020
Jennifer Killick is the author of the Alex Sparrow series and this is her first book in a brand new series. This was also my first venture into her wild and wacky imagination, and what an outrageously fun place it is. This had me laughing out loud one minute and then on the edge of my seat the next. If Killick’s imagination is driven by her real life experiences then she is having an absolute blast.
I’m not normally a huge fan of sci-fi books, it is just not a genre that I can relate to. I wasn’t raised on Star Wars, Star Trek and The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. What Killick does is makes sci-fi accessible and enjoyable through genuinely brilliant storytelling. I loved the references to Katniss (Hunger Games), Minecraft, a tesseract (Marvel), Gringott’s (Harry Potter) and I even picked up on the Gandalf reference (I’m not into Lord of the Rings either).
Mo has never met his father and Lottie’s mother has disappeared. And now Mo’s mum and Lottie’s dad have become a couple and decided that the families should move in together. Mo is getting two sisters he doesn’t really want; Lottie who is excitable, impatient, bossy and loud and Sadie who only speaks cat. Mo is smart, shy, kind, just a bit scared and would really rather be left alone. The banter between Mo & Lottie is hilarious and typical brother and sister stuff. Lottie is full of attitude and is more than happy to make fun of Mo at every opportunity; sarcastic comments are frequently passed between them. I loved how this new family dynamic is explored as it is so relevant to many children today.
The story is told from a dual perspective in the style of a vlog - this is the first book I have read of this kind. The action is fast paced and each vlog entry is full of hilarious insights into the minds of Lottie & Mo and each entry is written in the unique voice of each character. Together they must overcome their initial animosity towards each other and solve a mystery. They must find out why the new neighbour who has moved into Mo’s old house across the street keeps the curtains closed, why the ice-cream tastes like heaven and is so addictive, deal with an incompetent and rather angry lollipop man, figure out why the new boy at school looks exactly like a boy in a photograph from several years earlier, win a Science competition and hopefully save the world from the Junkers.
I really enjoyed how the book was peppered with exhibits of the clues and evidence that Mo & Lottie uncovered. It allows the reader to try and solve the mystery alongside the characters. I even managed to solve a clue linked to the notes!
Perfect reading for all children in years 5 and 6. Remember to be on the alert for Junkers and always be on your guard when you hear, “Who’s afraid of the big bad wolf…’”
I’m not normally a huge fan of sci-fi books, it is just not a genre that I can relate to. I wasn’t raised on Star Wars, Star Trek and The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. What Killick does is makes sci-fi accessible and enjoyable through genuinely brilliant storytelling. I loved the references to Katniss (Hunger Games), Minecraft, a tesseract (Marvel), Gringott’s (Harry Potter) and I even picked up on the Gandalf reference (I’m not into Lord of the Rings either).
Mo has never met his father and Lottie’s mother has disappeared. And now Mo’s mum and Lottie’s dad have become a couple and decided that the families should move in together. Mo is getting two sisters he doesn’t really want; Lottie who is excitable, impatient, bossy and loud and Sadie who only speaks cat. Mo is smart, shy, kind, just a bit scared and would really rather be left alone. The banter between Mo & Lottie is hilarious and typical brother and sister stuff. Lottie is full of attitude and is more than happy to make fun of Mo at every opportunity; sarcastic comments are frequently passed between them. I loved how this new family dynamic is explored as it is so relevant to many children today.
The story is told from a dual perspective in the style of a vlog - this is the first book I have read of this kind. The action is fast paced and each vlog entry is full of hilarious insights into the minds of Lottie & Mo and each entry is written in the unique voice of each character. Together they must overcome their initial animosity towards each other and solve a mystery. They must find out why the new neighbour who has moved into Mo’s old house across the street keeps the curtains closed, why the ice-cream tastes like heaven and is so addictive, deal with an incompetent and rather angry lollipop man, figure out why the new boy at school looks exactly like a boy in a photograph from several years earlier, win a Science competition and hopefully save the world from the Junkers.
I really enjoyed how the book was peppered with exhibits of the clues and evidence that Mo & Lottie uncovered. It allows the reader to try and solve the mystery alongside the characters. I even managed to solve a clue linked to the notes!
Perfect reading for all children in years 5 and 6. Remember to be on the alert for Junkers and always be on your guard when you hear, “Who’s afraid of the big bad wolf…’”
March 16, 2019
This is the first book in a new MG sci-fi detective series from the author of the (utterly wonderful) Alex Sparrow series. It introduces Mo and Lottie- whose parents have just moved in together- as they have to team up to investigate some very strange goings on that appear to be connected to their rather sinister new neighbours. First of all, I thought the format was so clever as it is a transcript of a video that Mo and Lottie are recording and this means there are so many marvellous moments where they go off on little tangents as they tell us their story. Their interactions in general were absolutely hilarious, and I loved them both so much as individuals alongside the friendship they form. On the plot side of things, the mystery is phenomenal. I was super intrigued from the outset and my desperation to learn more about the Junkers reached ridiculous levels as I read this. I always read (at the very least) one more chapter than I`d intended to in each session because I was so hooked and it`s very hard to put down. The conclusion was great too, and has left me very excited indeed for the follow-up. I was already thrilled Jennifer had two books out this year, and that`s even more true now; I can`t wait to see Alex and his world again in September before returning to Mo and Lottie next year! 5/5
April 17, 2019
Jennifer Killick has a real knack for creating characters you absolutely love. Mo and Lottie are truly unique characters, but I recognise so many kids and young people I have met over the years in them too. At the start of the story they don’t really get on and aren’t looking forward to sharing a house with each other, when Mo’s mum and Lottie’s dad move in with each other. But then they are forced into working together: to find out who the ‘Junkers’ are and to save themselves and others from danger.
The style it is written in is truly unique. It’s a two-person narrative, told by Mo and Lottie. But, with added twist, the story is told as a video blog (vlog) and throughout the story they refer to Exhibits (documents with extra information) which are put in the box. It would be great to create a box with the exhibits in that a group of children could pull out when they are reading the book. The book really encourages the reader to be an investigator along with the characters as they work out what is going on. A heart-warming, funny and intriguing tale which I would highly recommend to anyone aged 9+ years.
The style it is written in is truly unique. It’s a two-person narrative, told by Mo and Lottie. But, with added twist, the story is told as a video blog (vlog) and throughout the story they refer to Exhibits (documents with extra information) which are put in the box. It would be great to create a box with the exhibits in that a group of children could pull out when they are reading the book. The book really encourages the reader to be an investigator along with the characters as they work out what is going on. A heart-warming, funny and intriguing tale which I would highly recommend to anyone aged 9+ years.
April 10, 2019
A very original science-fiction comedy, Mo, Lottie and the Junkers is simply brilliant. With a background tale of a family situation, it is filled with feeling, drama and loads of humour. The story unfolds in a typical fashion, with the added punch of absolutely everything not being as it should. Mo is an identifiable character; thoughtful, ordinary, confused and determined. Lottie is a brilliant 'step-sister' type; quite irritating and nosy, but has all the answers and a genuine interest in blending the families together. The parents are brilliantly clueless to any of the peculiar events surrounding them. And the 'baddies'? Well, they are just fabulous; full of texture and idiosyncrasies that keep the reader on the edge of their seats...and laughing out loud. The array of well-described characters and fantastic story-telling create a plot that pulls the reader along through hilariously sinister deeds and gripping action. The pacing is pitch-perfect. Mystery, excitement and energy are infused throughout, making this a book you can't put down. Funny, consuming and imaginative!
June 1, 2019
The first in a new series by the author of the brilliant Alex Sparrow series. Mo and his Mum have just moved across the road to live with Lottie, her sister Sadie and her dad (Mum's new partner). But Mo cans still see his old house and something doesn't seem quite right. First, there is the new occupant, Lorelei, who acts very strangely. Then a new ice cream van starts appearing on the street, with the most delicious, addictive ice cream ever. Plus the lollipop man, who doesn't really seem to know what he's doing. And finally Jax, the new boy at school, who seems to know more than he lets on.
It's down to Mo and Lottie (with help from Sadie) to try and uncover just what is going on. And to try and find out why Mo's Dad disappeared many years ago.
This is a fantastic, fun story. Told by both Mo and Lottie, along with a video log narrative, the style keeps the action moving as the different points of view come across.
Looking forward to other books in the series.
It's down to Mo and Lottie (with help from Sadie) to try and uncover just what is going on. And to try and find out why Mo's Dad disappeared many years ago.
This is a fantastic, fun story. Told by both Mo and Lottie, along with a video log narrative, the style keeps the action moving as the different points of view come across.
Looking forward to other books in the series.
June 7, 2019
This is SUCH a fun, intensely creative contemporary sci-fi with family drama, comedy and a dynamic storytelling approach it’s very hard to talk about this book without giving away spoilers!!
Jennifer Killick has really created an edge of your seat mystery where you are never quite sure if the events are just childish games and imagination or the actual horrible truth.
The writing style is what makes this such a fun and playful read. The premise is that we are reading the transcript of a vlog left in the case of Mo and Lottie going missing and not being found with Mo and Lottie taking it in turns to recount the events from the day they moved in as a blended family interspersed with pieces of evidence such as notes, records and such.
Which suggests there is a narrative beyond this book and there is rich fodder for follow up books which I would LOVE to see.
I adored the way the mystery brings Lottie and Mo together as a family and they discover a genuine affection and understanding for each others quirks and edges as the narrative progresses. The little blossoms of friendship and familial bonds is beautiful to witness and a real strength of the book in regards to a realistic start but positive portrayal of a blended family.
Overall this is a fantastic cracking little novel full of laughs and shocks that will leave the reader giggling and checking their own community for tell tale signs of Junkers as the plot progresses too!!
Highly recommended for 8+ who love a bit of science fiction and fun.
Jennifer Killick has really created an edge of your seat mystery where you are never quite sure if the events are just childish games and imagination or the actual horrible truth.
The writing style is what makes this such a fun and playful read. The premise is that we are reading the transcript of a vlog left in the case of Mo and Lottie going missing and not being found with Mo and Lottie taking it in turns to recount the events from the day they moved in as a blended family interspersed with pieces of evidence such as notes, records and such.
Which suggests there is a narrative beyond this book and there is rich fodder for follow up books which I would LOVE to see.
I adored the way the mystery brings Lottie and Mo together as a family and they discover a genuine affection and understanding for each others quirks and edges as the narrative progresses. The little blossoms of friendship and familial bonds is beautiful to witness and a real strength of the book in regards to a realistic start but positive portrayal of a blended family.
Overall this is a fantastic cracking little novel full of laughs and shocks that will leave the reader giggling and checking their own community for tell tale signs of Junkers as the plot progresses too!!
Highly recommended for 8+ who love a bit of science fiction and fun.
June 5, 2022
I am currently reading this book with my year 3 class and they are loving it almost as much as I have. It’s a really gripping plot which benefits from having two very different narrators.
I would say that year 3 is probably the youngest I would read this book to as the jeopardy feels quite high and I can see younger children getting scared. Plus the science fiction elements might be confusing for them.
This is an excellent science fiction novel with real heart. The characters are fun and it deals with the real world experiences of having a step family as well as the science fiction mystery.
I would say that year 3 is probably the youngest I would read this book to as the jeopardy feels quite high and I can see younger children getting scared. Plus the science fiction elements might be confusing for them.
This is an excellent science fiction novel with real heart. The characters are fun and it deals with the real world experiences of having a step family as well as the science fiction mystery.
April 17, 2019
Brilliantly weird sci-fi mystery featuring new step-siblings Mo and Lottie. Confident and funny writing from Jennifer Killick in a unique style. The vlog format cleverly allows us to experience the viewpoint of the two main characters and to gain insights into their unique characters. Speaking of characters there are some epic creations here, from the weird neighbour Lorelai, to the monosyllabic ice-cream man, and Hector the Lollipop Man who thinks the lollipop baton is some kind of magical object.
Hilarious riotous fun for all ages.
Hilarious riotous fun for all ages.
April 18, 2019
Another funny, action packed offering from the wonderful offering from the wonderful Jennifer Killick! Full of fun and surprises, it will have you hooked from the very first page. Mo Appleby is trying to adjust to a new life with a new family when a giant mystery is dumped in his lap that puts his life and the lives of those he loves in danger. Can he learn to work with his new siblings to save the day? You’ll laugh out loud, grin from ear to ear and maybe shed a few happy tears along the way! Warning: this book is highly addictive and you won’t want to put it down!
February 19, 2019
Thoroughly enjoyed this sci-fi detective novel starring Mo, Lottie and their trusty side-kick, Sadie. As expected from JK the dialogue is sharp and very funny which will definitely appeal to children. The concept would not go amiss in Doctor Who and with time-travel driving the plot the only thing missing is the Tardis!
The ending is gripping and sets up what I feel will become a hugely popular series.
The ending is gripping and sets up what I feel will become a hugely popular series.
March 11, 2024
4.25 stars. One of Jennifer's earlier books (luckily her books got proper covers later on). Still the trade mark compulsively readable, witty and funny writing style & intriguing story with lovely & fun characters. One of the sci-fi writers for children, not many of those. Highly recommended!
April 22, 2019
Fabulously funny scifi adventure with a lot of heart (and sequins) and a fair amount of gruesome stuff. Loved it!
November 6, 2019
I absolutely loved the characters, plot and the imagination behind this brilliant book.
June 26, 2020
Was ok, just didn't grab me as much as I wanted it to. I imagine the age group it is aimed at would enjoy it and the suspense!
April 14, 2019
This is a brilliantly original and funny story from the ever excellent author Jennifer Killick that is bound to appeal to children who love an adventure. Mo and Lottie are a joyful double act and their blended family is created with honesty and love and as for the Junkers...well lets just say you'll never look at ice cream vans the same way again.
Wonderful! Highly recommend!
Wonderful! Highly recommend!
August 9, 2019
With Mo, Lottie and the Junkers, Jennifer Killick has created a fantastic cast of characters and set them a fiendish problem to solve.
Mo and Lottie are so endearing, so flawed, so irritating and so comfortable with being themselves that they are an absolute joy.
The Junkers are genuinely creepy and the peril feels real which totally drew me into the story. Sadie is just brilliant and it's great to see such a positive portrayal of a new family coming together, with differences, with some sadness but with love and positivity.
It's funny, exciting, occasionally a bit scary and full of clever writing.
I was #gifted a copy by @FireflyPress in return for my honest review.
Mo and Lottie are so endearing, so flawed, so irritating and so comfortable with being themselves that they are an absolute joy.
The Junkers are genuinely creepy and the peril feels real which totally drew me into the story. Sadie is just brilliant and it's great to see such a positive portrayal of a new family coming together, with differences, with some sadness but with love and positivity.
It's funny, exciting, occasionally a bit scary and full of clever writing.
I was #gifted a copy by @FireflyPress in return for my honest review.
June 14, 2021
I’ve read other books, same series, by this author and was unsure if I would like her other work. I can honestly say she didn’t disappoint. This book was AMAZING!!! The twists were completely out of the blue, the story line was perfect, the way it was written was amazing, the message behind lovely and just an all round fabulous book!!!
November 23, 2023
I loved this book so much. The Characters made me smile and grimace in equal measure. The Junkers horrified me and this book literally takes you to another world. The first installment of an exciting new series. Roll on the next one.
August 14, 2021
Very adventuress · Lot of knowledge · Lot of suspense · And lot of clues that are very hard to understand (but, because of my genius of a brain, I understood all of them.) · A lot of detective work
December 31, 2019
This book was a brilliant read! Cannot wait to find out what happens next!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews