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The Scam List
Meet the best teen con artist team around.
Boone McReedy: high school conman, smooth-talking charmer, and the idiot who just got scammed out of $15,000 of his mom's money.
Darby West: ass-kicker, straight-shooter, and Boone's ex-girlfriend.
Now, they must team up to save their parents' business, one con at a time.
That is if they don't kill each other first.
Of course, they're only going to scam people who deserve it.
That’s a promise.
Would they lie to you?
As he did in his award-winning debut, DON’T GET CAUGHT, Kurt Dinan brings laughs, twists, and heart to THE SCAM LISTS’ funny world of teen con artists, exes, and outrageous five-dollar bets.
Boone McReedy: high school conman, smooth-talking charmer, and the idiot who just got scammed out of $15,000 of his mom's money.
Darby West: ass-kicker, straight-shooter, and Boone's ex-girlfriend.
Now, they must team up to save their parents' business, one con at a time.
That is if they don't kill each other first.
Of course, they're only going to scam people who deserve it.
That’s a promise.
Would they lie to you?
As he did in his award-winning debut, DON’T GET CAUGHT, Kurt Dinan brings laughs, twists, and heart to THE SCAM LISTS’ funny world of teen con artists, exes, and outrageous five-dollar bets.
264 pages, Paperback
First published August 3, 2020
10 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
Kurt Dinan
15 books191 followersKurt Dinan is a high school English teacher living in Cincinnati. His debut novel, DON'T GET CAUGHT, was released April of 2016, and was a Junior Library Guild selection and winner of 2017's YALSA's Teens' Top Ten Award. His latest novel, THE SCAM LIST, will be released in August of 2020. He is represented by Kerry Sparks of LGR.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
August 4, 2020
NOW AVAILABLE!!!
i spent a chunk of my quarantime rewatching all three seasons of Sneaky Pete (RIP, ricky jay) AND Logan Lucky, so even if i hadn't already read-and-loved this author's previous book—Don't Get Caught, i probably would have been lured over to it anyway by the prospect of all-new CON-tent.
(pause for laughter and thunderous applause)
anyway, this is a genuinely fun and funny YA adventure, full of elaborate cons and witty banter. it stars boone mcreedy, the likable son of an incarcerated con man who is following lightly in his father's footsteps, using the art of the con to humiliate bullies, cadge free drinks, and sweet-talk the ladies. by which i mean age-appropriate teenage girls.
he will also, occasionally, use it against you, the reader.
boone helps out by doing odd jobs at the flea market his mom runs: 20-acres of commerce known locally as “garbage mountain,” containing 120 booths with names like Next Stop, The Dump, and Tats and Tots, which is a tattoo parlor that also sells tater tots. obviously.
despite the conceptual cleverness of their vendors, the market itself has seen better days, but those small businessmen and -women, selling their velvet paintings of the baby Jesus swaddled in an American flag, their dictionaries in every language, their OH I DON’T KNOW haunted dolls over at Karen’s Nightmare Toys, are like one big extended family—helping boone develop his fashion sense, steering him towards whatever clogged thing needs unclogging, and occasionally assisting him in his exploits.
but, sometimes a teenage boy will do a thing that deeply disappoints his family, such as oh-so-ironically falling victim to a pretty girl’s con and losing $15,000 of the flea market’s ca$h, making it even more vulnerable to being bought out by the competition across the way: the much fancier castle-shaped "treasure palace." and in a “family” of that size, there’s a lot of disappointment to go around.
but maybe, with the help of his still-resentful martial arts-teaching ex-girlfriend darby, he can get it back? or at least earn back the equivalent through a series of mini-cons? does that sound like a fun book to read?
spoiler alert: it IS!
i barely read YA anymore, not for any particular reason other than that i mostly read stuff i get sent by publishers these days, and i don't seem to be on any YA-publishers' radars. back when i was reading it more frequently, it was mostly survival or horror/dark fantasy stuff because teens in contemporary/realistic fiction annoy me. (maybe this attitude is why i don't get sent a lot of YA ARCs...) but dinan's brand of teen characters don’t annoy me at all. i appreciate boone’s voice; his self-deprecation and smart-ass humor as much as the twists and turns of the cons. this one has the same energy and spirit as Don't Get Caught, and it is genuinely funny and good-hearted with excellent conning and a wonderful resolution.
boone may not be toothpaste-ad wholesome because of the cussing and conning and drinking and…dating he does, but in all the ways that actually matter, you can tell he’s on his way to becoming a good adult person—he’s hard-working, respects his mother, protects nerds from bullies, has his own hard limits about conning, and—if he starts off the book a little careless and immature in how he conducts his…dating life, he’s at least willing to learn how to be better.
and if he still needs some lessons, darby'll be there to kick his ass. or have a nine-year-old do it.
this is out on august 3rd, but if YOU CAN'T EVEN WAIT, you can read this: The Con Artist Dates, which contains three short prequel stories featuring boone and darby that i am going to read myself as soon as i figure out how to work this here kindle john gave me.
********************************
i was propositioned...by an author!!
I want to give you a booth in the flea market, but I want to tailor it to you, specifically. So come on, ever dreamed of being the owner of a flea market booth? What would you want to sell? Name it, and it's yours! Yes, I'm making your dreams come true today! No need to call me a hero.
DREAMS!!! HERO!!!!
and you!!! COME
TO
MY
BOOTH!!!!!!!
come to my blog!
i spent a chunk of my quarantime rewatching all three seasons of Sneaky Pete (RIP, ricky jay) AND Logan Lucky, so even if i hadn't already read-and-loved this author's previous book—Don't Get Caught, i probably would have been lured over to it anyway by the prospect of all-new CON-tent.
(pause for laughter and thunderous applause)
anyway, this is a genuinely fun and funny YA adventure, full of elaborate cons and witty banter. it stars boone mcreedy, the likable son of an incarcerated con man who is following lightly in his father's footsteps, using the art of the con to humiliate bullies, cadge free drinks, and sweet-talk the ladies. by which i mean age-appropriate teenage girls.
he will also, occasionally, use it against you, the reader.
boone helps out by doing odd jobs at the flea market his mom runs: 20-acres of commerce known locally as “garbage mountain,” containing 120 booths with names like Next Stop, The Dump, and Tats and Tots, which is a tattoo parlor that also sells tater tots. obviously.
despite the conceptual cleverness of their vendors, the market itself has seen better days, but those small businessmen and -women, selling their velvet paintings of the baby Jesus swaddled in an American flag, their dictionaries in every language, their OH I DON’T KNOW haunted dolls over at Karen’s Nightmare Toys, are like one big extended family—helping boone develop his fashion sense, steering him towards whatever clogged thing needs unclogging, and occasionally assisting him in his exploits.
but, sometimes a teenage boy will do a thing that deeply disappoints his family, such as oh-so-ironically falling victim to a pretty girl’s con and losing $15,000 of the flea market’s ca$h, making it even more vulnerable to being bought out by the competition across the way: the much fancier castle-shaped "treasure palace." and in a “family” of that size, there’s a lot of disappointment to go around.
but maybe, with the help of his still-resentful martial arts-teaching ex-girlfriend darby, he can get it back? or at least earn back the equivalent through a series of mini-cons? does that sound like a fun book to read?
spoiler alert: it IS!
i barely read YA anymore, not for any particular reason other than that i mostly read stuff i get sent by publishers these days, and i don't seem to be on any YA-publishers' radars. back when i was reading it more frequently, it was mostly survival or horror/dark fantasy stuff because teens in contemporary/realistic fiction annoy me. (maybe this attitude is why i don't get sent a lot of YA ARCs...) but dinan's brand of teen characters don’t annoy me at all. i appreciate boone’s voice; his self-deprecation and smart-ass humor as much as the twists and turns of the cons. this one has the same energy and spirit as Don't Get Caught, and it is genuinely funny and good-hearted with excellent conning and a wonderful resolution.
boone may not be toothpaste-ad wholesome because of the cussing and conning and drinking and…dating he does, but in all the ways that actually matter, you can tell he’s on his way to becoming a good adult person—he’s hard-working, respects his mother, protects nerds from bullies, has his own hard limits about conning, and—if he starts off the book a little careless and immature in how he conducts his…dating life, he’s at least willing to learn how to be better.
and if he still needs some lessons, darby'll be there to kick his ass. or have a nine-year-old do it.
this is out on august 3rd, but if YOU CAN'T EVEN WAIT, you can read this: The Con Artist Dates, which contains three short prequel stories featuring boone and darby that i am going to read myself as soon as i figure out how to work this here kindle john gave me.
********************************
i was propositioned...by an author!!
I want to give you a booth in the flea market, but I want to tailor it to you, specifically. So come on, ever dreamed of being the owner of a flea market booth? What would you want to sell? Name it, and it's yours! Yes, I'm making your dreams come true today! No need to call me a hero.
DREAMS!!! HERO!!!!
and you!!! COME
TO
MY
BOOTH!!!!!!!
come to my blog!
June 14, 2020
That's right, I reviewed my own book. Wanna fight?! (Please, no, because I bleed easily and cry a lot.) I say believe in yourself! :)
April 15, 2021
I want to have the fighting skills of Darby West when I grow up. She kicks butt! And she has a sweet spot for Boone McReedy -- although he totally does not deserve it. When Boone needs help recouping a big loss, Darby is his partner in pulling con jobs. Her stipulation is that the marks have to deserve it. So, you get kind of a 'Logan Lucky' vibe as Boone consults with his daddy in prison and there is a buildup to a big finish. I love that the very last job is called the 'Kansas City Shuffle.' I have also driven by Batesville many times when I was travelling to Harrison, OH to visit my son and family. Thanks to Kurt Dinan for another glimpse into activities my rule-following self would never have been able to experience otherwise.
June 18, 2020
Its never easy when one of your parents does something bad. People judges you for it and will always look bad at you. When someting goes wrong they start pointing fingers. Thats what happes to Boone. His dad was a con artist and when the money of his moms business goes missing right after meeting a mystirus girl, everyone thinks Boone stole the money. He is hell bend on getting the money back to save his moms business. Its fast reading story with all the right amounts of action, fun, secrets and lies in it. Its just suckes you in until the end.
August 4, 2020
Imagine a teenaged, smooth-talking Danny Ocean crossed with a Gen-Z Ferris Bueller, and you've got a perfect picture of Boone McReedy, the witty protagonist of The Scam List. Boone is an imperfect-but-lovable guy, a scam artist who schmoozes the ladies, exploits his friends, and tries to figure out if he's a heartless psychopath like his conman dad. As he and his ex, ass-kicking Darby West, try to scam their way to $15,000 to save their parents' business, Boone must come to terms with who he is and who he wants to be.
Like Dinan's first novel, Don't Get Caught, The Scam List is a smart, heart-filled, laugh-out-loud funny read. With so many YA books about heavy (albeit important) social issues, readers will appreciate the escape and lightheartedness of this caper tale. I know I did!
*I received an Advanced Reader Copy which I have voluntarily reviewed.
Like Dinan's first novel, Don't Get Caught, The Scam List is a smart, heart-filled, laugh-out-loud funny read. With so many YA books about heavy (albeit important) social issues, readers will appreciate the escape and lightheartedness of this caper tale. I know I did!
*I received an Advanced Reader Copy which I have voluntarily reviewed.
August 3, 2020
“My dad’s in jail, my mom owns a massive junk emporium and I spend most of my days in a dinosaur. How’s your life going?” (10%)
Boone McReedy is a smooth-talking high-school conman who spends his days (unwillingly) in the body of a “talking” dinosaur, welcoming guests to his mom’s flea market. The lovable, if slightly-frustrating protagonist, soon finds himself in a nearly-impossible situation when he has to somehow recoup $15,000 of his mom’s money, and he enlists the help of his once-romantic interest, Darby. Will they be able to work together, run multiple cons, and earn the money back?
Darby is my favorite character by far. I appreciate her tough, no-nonsense personality, and her impressive martial-arts skill set. The banter between Darby and Boone provides an effective counterpoint to some of their more serious discussions, and I like how she is the catalyst for some of his subtle character changes. Boone was a little exhausting to me at times, with his high opinions of his appeal to the opposite sex (even when it was meant to be more self-depricating), but he is an overall likable protagonist (even when I was rolling my eyes at him).
The Scam List is a quick-paced, engaging read, with multiple twists and turns. Author Kurt Dinan clearly knows and understands his target audience, teenagers, as this book would hold the attention of even the most reluctant readers (just like his first work, Don’t Get Caught). This high-school teacher can’t wait to get this novel in the hands of students soon!
I received an Advanced Reader Copy which I have voluntarily reviewed.
Boone McReedy is a smooth-talking high-school conman who spends his days (unwillingly) in the body of a “talking” dinosaur, welcoming guests to his mom’s flea market. The lovable, if slightly-frustrating protagonist, soon finds himself in a nearly-impossible situation when he has to somehow recoup $15,000 of his mom’s money, and he enlists the help of his once-romantic interest, Darby. Will they be able to work together, run multiple cons, and earn the money back?
Darby is my favorite character by far. I appreciate her tough, no-nonsense personality, and her impressive martial-arts skill set. The banter between Darby and Boone provides an effective counterpoint to some of their more serious discussions, and I like how she is the catalyst for some of his subtle character changes. Boone was a little exhausting to me at times, with his high opinions of his appeal to the opposite sex (even when it was meant to be more self-depricating), but he is an overall likable protagonist (even when I was rolling my eyes at him).
The Scam List is a quick-paced, engaging read, with multiple twists and turns. Author Kurt Dinan clearly knows and understands his target audience, teenagers, as this book would hold the attention of even the most reluctant readers (just like his first work, Don’t Get Caught). This high-school teacher can’t wait to get this novel in the hands of students soon!
I received an Advanced Reader Copy which I have voluntarily reviewed.
August 3, 2020
The Scam List was such a fun and well done book. I love how clever and charming the main character Boone is, while still feeling like a true human being (something YA books can struggle with sometimes). This book kept me on my toes throughout its entirety and luckily, I didn’t get scammed.
Flashforward twenty years and I’m still recommending this book to people.
I received an advanced copy of the book, which I have voluntarily reviewed.
Flashforward twenty years and I’m still recommending this book to people.
I received an advanced copy of the book, which I have voluntarily reviewed.
June 24, 2020
Pre-review review: Another delightful good time from Kurt Dinan! Recommended reading for summertime hammock lounging.
June 24, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the pleasure of a few hours with Boone McReedy...he isn’t the most scrupulous of characters, but boy was he entertaining.
From the outset we know Boone is not whiter than white. As the son of a man in prison for running cons, his reputation precedes him and Boone definitely enjoys the thrill that comes with running a successful con. However, when he has £15,000 dollars stolen from his car (because he was trying to hit on an attractive young girl) Boone realises he has to step up and play his part in helping to save his mother’s business.
What follows is dubious and definitely not to be encouraged, but it was entertaining. Done with a cheeky grin, and knowing he’s got one over the people who were trying to take advantage of his family, much against our better judgment we may side with Boone.
From the outset we know Boone is not whiter than white. As the son of a man in prison for running cons, his reputation precedes him and Boone definitely enjoys the thrill that comes with running a successful con. However, when he has £15,000 dollars stolen from his car (because he was trying to hit on an attractive young girl) Boone realises he has to step up and play his part in helping to save his mother’s business.
What follows is dubious and definitely not to be encouraged, but it was entertaining. Done with a cheeky grin, and knowing he’s got one over the people who were trying to take advantage of his family, much against our better judgment we may side with Boone.
September 24, 2020
Why did I wait so long to read this?! I loved it, couldn't get enough of it, and wish there was more. The scams are so much fun and watching Boone and Darby play them out was awesome. The plot is engaging and pulls you in from the beginning and the pacing was well done.
Boone is a funny guy, he's always cracking jokes or being hilariously cocky. He's a charmer and has learned from his convicted conman dad how to manipulate any situation to benefit him. Boone straddles the line of fairly harmless scams and bigger cons where people suffer. He can't stop from suckering someone out of ten bucks at the bar, but he isn't sure about taking people's life savings. Luckily, his ex Darby comes back into the picture to be his partner and moral compass.
Darby is a badass, she trains in a dojo and teaches young girls to defend themselves. She's great at scams, but doesn't want to be. Darby is a pretty honest person and I liked when she kept Boone in check.
The story is fun and exciting and I flew through it. The ending wasn't quite what I wanted, more hopeful than certain, but I was still happy. I'll definitely check out the prequel story and I'm looking forward to more books from this author.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Boone is a funny guy, he's always cracking jokes or being hilariously cocky. He's a charmer and has learned from his convicted conman dad how to manipulate any situation to benefit him. Boone straddles the line of fairly harmless scams and bigger cons where people suffer. He can't stop from suckering someone out of ten bucks at the bar, but he isn't sure about taking people's life savings. Luckily, his ex Darby comes back into the picture to be his partner and moral compass.
Darby is a badass, she trains in a dojo and teaches young girls to defend themselves. She's great at scams, but doesn't want to be. Darby is a pretty honest person and I liked when she kept Boone in check.
The story is fun and exciting and I flew through it. The ending wasn't quite what I wanted, more hopeful than certain, but I was still happy. I'll definitely check out the prequel story and I'm looking forward to more books from this author.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
August 5, 2020
This is a book about a budding grifter/con-artist who is trying to figure it out. Not conning people; he’s already figured that out pretty good. I'm referring to the other thing: life.
We all inherent things from our parents; Boone is trying to figure out what he has inherited. Is it the con artist skills he has learned from his father, the kindness of his mother, and/or the ethical line that put his father in jail? What trumps, experience or genes or a bit of both?
The setting is the Midwest, where I live. Usually we get a lot of flak for being the boring part of the country, what with our safely flat lands away from the ocean and our blandly neutral American accents. In this book, not so. Who would have known a writer could make the midwest so idiosyncratic yet super duper compelling and irresistible? Usually, books about the Midwest doubledown on our supposed aversion of anything with spice, but this book is about loving what you got, being proud of who you are. Midwest, you be the Midwest. People, you be you. Don't let others tell you who you need to be. This book supports just following your nerd path, never mind the spectators. (Oh yeah. When I say nerds, I mean all humans. Because, really, all humans are nerds.)
My favorite bit about this book is that you’ll be introduced to those old con movies of yore (or get nostalgia for them, as I did). Those old movies always have that soft center that makes them charming. This book is certainly no different. So, you’ll get some good feels while delighting in the action of the heist/caper/con genre.
And, really, this is a funny book. Also, kind. Also, charming. Also, clever. It's a lot of things, which is what I think you want with a book. Therefore: Recommend!
(I received an Advanced Reader Copy which I have voluntarily reviewed.)
We all inherent things from our parents; Boone is trying to figure out what he has inherited. Is it the con artist skills he has learned from his father, the kindness of his mother, and/or the ethical line that put his father in jail? What trumps, experience or genes or a bit of both?
The setting is the Midwest, where I live. Usually we get a lot of flak for being the boring part of the country, what with our safely flat lands away from the ocean and our blandly neutral American accents. In this book, not so. Who would have known a writer could make the midwest so idiosyncratic yet super duper compelling and irresistible? Usually, books about the Midwest doubledown on our supposed aversion of anything with spice, but this book is about loving what you got, being proud of who you are. Midwest, you be the Midwest. People, you be you. Don't let others tell you who you need to be. This book supports just following your nerd path, never mind the spectators. (Oh yeah. When I say nerds, I mean all humans. Because, really, all humans are nerds.)
My favorite bit about this book is that you’ll be introduced to those old con movies of yore (or get nostalgia for them, as I did). Those old movies always have that soft center that makes them charming. This book is certainly no different. So, you’ll get some good feels while delighting in the action of the heist/caper/con genre.
And, really, this is a funny book. Also, kind. Also, charming. Also, clever. It's a lot of things, which is what I think you want with a book. Therefore: Recommend!
(I received an Advanced Reader Copy which I have voluntarily reviewed.)
July 20, 2020
A quick, light-hearted read that gives off Scott Pilgrim vs. The Universe vibes. The humour sometimes wasn't up to my standard, but I guess it's the matter of taste. Nice palate-cleanser between longer books with heavier themes.
September 20, 2021
This was a fun diversion YA book about cons and is book 2 in how I spent my summer vacation with a tick illness.
August 3, 2020
I received this as an ARC for my honest review. I am a fan of Dinan’s first book and I was pretty excited to read this one. In this really dark time, I have been trying to read lighter books. This one started pretty dark and I had a hard time getting into it. It’s got some heavy themes that I admit I struggled with at times. However I am so happy to have read this book. It ended in a very positive way that I thoroughly enjoyed. I really love a good underdog book. If you enjoy it too, you will like this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2020
Boone McReedy was a notorious conman, and many had been his victim. This time, he's the victim and his family's business lies in the balance. Now, Boone and his ex, Darby, must race against the clock as they embark on a scam-spree, but will they be able to save Golden Mountain?
The main reason I wanted to read this book was because I LOVED Dinan's Don't Get Caught. It was hilarious, and as expected, so was The Scam List. Packed with wit, humor, and quirky characters, I found myself lost in this story and totally invested in its outcome.
Boone's narration was probably one of my favorite things about this book. The kid was snarky, wry, self-depreciating, and fluent in my mother tongue - sarcasm. I won't lie, it was a ton of fun being in his head. I was bit worried about him with his laissez faire attitude, but the conman being conned humbled him a bit. Spending time with Darby (who was phenomenal) was also good for him. She helped him gain some perspective on things, and it was a pleasure seeing him grow.
The whole scam spree was brilliant. It resulted in so many pitch perfect comedic moments, and I always welcome a good laugh. I am not privy to the world of scammers, and therefore, I found all these plans for scams quite intriguing. The plotting of the BIG CON was especially fun and gave me some heist-like vibes. It was quite a trip being with these two as they delivered their brand of justice scams, and I loved every second of it.
Life inside the Golden Mountain flea market was a hoot too. To have that many zany characters in one place was a treat for me. I found myself looking forward to meeting each and every one of the boothers and found them all fantastic.
When I picked up this book, I was looking for something that was laugh-out-loud fun, and Dinan delivered. I had an amazing time getting to know Boone and the rest of the Golden Mountain family, and am grateful I got to tag along on this caper.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
The main reason I wanted to read this book was because I LOVED Dinan's Don't Get Caught. It was hilarious, and as expected, so was The Scam List. Packed with wit, humor, and quirky characters, I found myself lost in this story and totally invested in its outcome.
Boone's narration was probably one of my favorite things about this book. The kid was snarky, wry, self-depreciating, and fluent in my mother tongue - sarcasm. I won't lie, it was a ton of fun being in his head. I was bit worried about him with his laissez faire attitude, but the conman being conned humbled him a bit. Spending time with Darby (who was phenomenal) was also good for him. She helped him gain some perspective on things, and it was a pleasure seeing him grow.
The whole scam spree was brilliant. It resulted in so many pitch perfect comedic moments, and I always welcome a good laugh. I am not privy to the world of scammers, and therefore, I found all these plans for scams quite intriguing. The plotting of the BIG CON was especially fun and gave me some heist-like vibes. It was quite a trip being with these two as they delivered their brand of justice scams, and I loved every second of it.
Life inside the Golden Mountain flea market was a hoot too. To have that many zany characters in one place was a treat for me. I found myself looking forward to meeting each and every one of the boothers and found them all fantastic.
When I picked up this book, I was looking for something that was laugh-out-loud fun, and Dinan delivered. I had an amazing time getting to know Boone and the rest of the Golden Mountain family, and am grateful I got to tag along on this caper.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
July 11, 2020
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Warning: there are spoilers in my review
Rating: 4.5*
Plot: 3*
Characters: 5*
Before getting into the actual review, I just need to say that this book made me laugh so hard I almost cried. I adored our main character Boone and his voice was so refreshing and amusing at the same time. I loved how he handled everything with a healthy dose of sarcasm and his relationship with his mom (and even dad) was pretty touching. I think I highlighted almost all of his clever remarks and especially parts where he and Darby fought because it made me chuckle and I will definitely want to reread it. I enjoyed learning about different cons and actually seeing how they pull them off.
That brings me to the part of the story I didn’t exactly love. I loved the idea of Darby, I mean who wouldn’t want s badass fighter girl? But for me, Darby felt a little too preachy and some of her actions felt very abusive and not so funny (like the scene where she gets Boone to volunteer to teach girl self defence class and she encourages a little girl to kick him in the groin, while reading that I was pretty disgusted). Later in the books she addressed her anger issues and I liked that but I feel like she should’ve maybe also apologized to Boone because for the most of the book she was pretty rude to him. Also, I felt like Boone changed quite a lot for her but she didn’t do anything for him. All that talk through the book that he doesn’t deserve her or that she is too good for him just rubbed me the wrong way cause I didn’t see what’s so good about her, other than her so-so moral compass. But as I said, I started liking her more as the story progressed and I love how she let herself be vulnerable in the end. I wouldn’t mind reading more about Boone and her where they go to college and get themselves into more trouble.
Another part that felt a bit unconvincing for me was the ending, especially the part where they “convince” Parker not to show that girl's pictures by threating him with a beating from a little girl. That felt a bit too campy for me because the rest of the con was actually very clever and subtle and I love how it was pulled off. Actually I found myself wishing the last con was a lot longer because I loved watching Boone make Parker paranoid and see all boothers from Garbage Mountain working together. All in all, I would definitely recommend this book to everyone looking for a clever and funny main character, great snark and just all together a fun read.
Warning: there are spoilers in my review
Rating: 4.5*
Plot: 3*
Characters: 5*
Before getting into the actual review, I just need to say that this book made me laugh so hard I almost cried. I adored our main character Boone and his voice was so refreshing and amusing at the same time. I loved how he handled everything with a healthy dose of sarcasm and his relationship with his mom (and even dad) was pretty touching. I think I highlighted almost all of his clever remarks and especially parts where he and Darby fought because it made me chuckle and I will definitely want to reread it. I enjoyed learning about different cons and actually seeing how they pull them off.
That brings me to the part of the story I didn’t exactly love. I loved the idea of Darby, I mean who wouldn’t want s badass fighter girl? But for me, Darby felt a little too preachy and some of her actions felt very abusive and not so funny (like the scene where she gets Boone to volunteer to teach girl self defence class and she encourages a little girl to kick him in the groin, while reading that I was pretty disgusted). Later in the books she addressed her anger issues and I liked that but I feel like she should’ve maybe also apologized to Boone because for the most of the book she was pretty rude to him. Also, I felt like Boone changed quite a lot for her but she didn’t do anything for him. All that talk through the book that he doesn’t deserve her or that she is too good for him just rubbed me the wrong way cause I didn’t see what’s so good about her, other than her so-so moral compass. But as I said, I started liking her more as the story progressed and I love how she let herself be vulnerable in the end. I wouldn’t mind reading more about Boone and her where they go to college and get themselves into more trouble.
Another part that felt a bit unconvincing for me was the ending, especially the part where they “convince” Parker not to show that girl's pictures by threating him with a beating from a little girl. That felt a bit too campy for me because the rest of the con was actually very clever and subtle and I love how it was pulled off. Actually I found myself wishing the last con was a lot longer because I loved watching Boone make Parker paranoid and see all boothers from Garbage Mountain working together. All in all, I would definitely recommend this book to everyone looking for a clever and funny main character, great snark and just all together a fun read.
July 29, 2020
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Overall 4.5/5 stars. This book was great! If you’re looking for a light-hearted story, full of humor, but not devoid of theme, this one’s for you. The plot kept my attention, without being saturated with tension. It remained unpredictable in a satisfying way— the twists are clever and appropriate, such that they make sense without being obvious. On the heavier side, the themes include parental abandonment and defining morality. The writing itself was tight. There was enough description to immerse the reader, but not enough to hinder the pace. Similarly, the characterization was wonderfully balanced. Darby, and her anti-misogynistic agenda, (especially from a male author) were both hilarious and welcome. A strong female character who is actually strong and capable? Love it. Even better was her small/young martial arts student who could take down guys much bigger than she was (and had no reservations doing so).
Despite the great characterization and plot, with characters growing throughout the story without changing who they are fundamentally, I still wanted more. Namely, I wished more of Boone’s changes (and perhaps more change to occur in general) came from an intrinsic desire, rather than pressure from those around him.
While I highly recommend this book, I give it a 4.5 instead of a 5. Beyond the aforementioned character growth issue, I also know it’s not going to be a favorite of mine. Some of this is likely personal taste. I like characters who are empathetic and want to be the best version of themselves. Some of it is also the fact that while I was entertained while reading, the characters and plot haven’t stayed with me beyond the ending. The themes were great, but there wasn’t a profoundly different take on them, nor anything else to keep me thinking. Which is great if that’s what you like in books!
Overall 4.5/5 stars. This book was great! If you’re looking for a light-hearted story, full of humor, but not devoid of theme, this one’s for you. The plot kept my attention, without being saturated with tension. It remained unpredictable in a satisfying way— the twists are clever and appropriate, such that they make sense without being obvious. On the heavier side, the themes include parental abandonment and defining morality. The writing itself was tight. There was enough description to immerse the reader, but not enough to hinder the pace. Similarly, the characterization was wonderfully balanced. Darby, and her anti-misogynistic agenda, (especially from a male author) were both hilarious and welcome. A strong female character who is actually strong and capable? Love it. Even better was her small/young martial arts student who could take down guys much bigger than she was (and had no reservations doing so).
Despite the great characterization and plot, with characters growing throughout the story without changing who they are fundamentally, I still wanted more. Namely, I wished more of Boone’s changes (and perhaps more change to occur in general) came from an intrinsic desire, rather than pressure from those around him.
While I highly recommend this book, I give it a 4.5 instead of a 5. Beyond the aforementioned character growth issue, I also know it’s not going to be a favorite of mine. Some of this is likely personal taste. I like characters who are empathetic and want to be the best version of themselves. Some of it is also the fact that while I was entertained while reading, the characters and plot haven’t stayed with me beyond the ending. The themes were great, but there wasn’t a profoundly different take on them, nor anything else to keep me thinking. Which is great if that’s what you like in books!
September 27, 2020
**FULL REVIEW**
I'm always pleasantly surprised when reading a book by a male author. Dinan delivered a fun, yet intense storyline with The Scam List .
Written in the male voice, not just the male point of view has a different vibe...one I rather enjoyed. Making them young was a bonus. I expected to be bored; just another punk kid making trouble for his mom when in reality, I get this complex and layered life of a boy who's a victim of his circumstances...but has fully embraced them and in the end, well, you'll have to read and see to find out.
Boone is a con-artist...well, a budding one. He toes the line of criminal and practical joker in a clever way that keeps him from fully experiencing the consequences of his actions. Darby keeps him in check...most of the time, but in reality, she truly likes him for who he is. It's just about balance with her...and I really enjoyed reading her character too...she's a take-no-prisoners, tell-it-like-it-is kinda girl with some great fighting skills. She and Boone make a great team; she keeps him grounded, he pushes her out of her comfort zone.
I felt the stresses Dinan pursued in this story too, the life of a single mother struggling to make ends meet...having a child that causes her more headache than she deserves, an absent father that a son just can't seem to let go of...frienships and rivalries between businesses and personalities. It was well worth his five-year writing stint to bring this young-adult novel to life. Full of details and little nuances one might've overlooked had it been rushed.
This book played out like a movie, one I'd be happy to watch multiple times because surely I missed something the first time around. Great job.
**4 Now You See Me, Stars**
I'm always pleasantly surprised when reading a book by a male author. Dinan delivered a fun, yet intense storyline with The Scam List .
Written in the male voice, not just the male point of view has a different vibe...one I rather enjoyed. Making them young was a bonus. I expected to be bored; just another punk kid making trouble for his mom when in reality, I get this complex and layered life of a boy who's a victim of his circumstances...but has fully embraced them and in the end, well, you'll have to read and see to find out.
Boone is a con-artist...well, a budding one. He toes the line of criminal and practical joker in a clever way that keeps him from fully experiencing the consequences of his actions. Darby keeps him in check...most of the time, but in reality, she truly likes him for who he is. It's just about balance with her...and I really enjoyed reading her character too...she's a take-no-prisoners, tell-it-like-it-is kinda girl with some great fighting skills. She and Boone make a great team; she keeps him grounded, he pushes her out of her comfort zone.
I felt the stresses Dinan pursued in this story too, the life of a single mother struggling to make ends meet...having a child that causes her more headache than she deserves, an absent father that a son just can't seem to let go of...frienships and rivalries between businesses and personalities. It was well worth his five-year writing stint to bring this young-adult novel to life. Full of details and little nuances one might've overlooked had it been rushed.
This book played out like a movie, one I'd be happy to watch multiple times because surely I missed something the first time around. Great job.
**4 Now You See Me, Stars**
August 1, 2020
The Scam List by Kurt Dinan: A boy is conned out of his family business' money, and has to use all his skills to get the money back.
What a really fun, laugh-out-loud book! There were moments where I found myself so immersed in the dialogue, I felt like I was back in high school. The characters words and actions were so believable. Their snark, their anger, their insecurities, all of it. I wish there were more YA books like this one being published. It seems the last few years, the YA authors have been trying to one-up each other on how dysfunctional an environment they can create for their characters to exist. Characters who, usually, have Olympic sized obstacles to overcome, some sort of abuse or addiction, and on and on. The Scam List was a very refreshing change from all that darkness, a wild ride of shenanigans, hoodwinkery, and, of course, scams.
100% recommend this book, and not just to young adults. Life is too serious most days folks, take a break and step into a novel that will make you laugh and forget about being an adult for just a little while.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing me with an ARC of The Scam List by Kurt Dinan in exchange for my honest review.
What a really fun, laugh-out-loud book! There were moments where I found myself so immersed in the dialogue, I felt like I was back in high school. The characters words and actions were so believable. Their snark, their anger, their insecurities, all of it. I wish there were more YA books like this one being published. It seems the last few years, the YA authors have been trying to one-up each other on how dysfunctional an environment they can create for their characters to exist. Characters who, usually, have Olympic sized obstacles to overcome, some sort of abuse or addiction, and on and on. The Scam List was a very refreshing change from all that darkness, a wild ride of shenanigans, hoodwinkery, and, of course, scams.
100% recommend this book, and not just to young adults. Life is too serious most days folks, take a break and step into a novel that will make you laugh and forget about being an adult for just a little while.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing me with an ARC of The Scam List by Kurt Dinan in exchange for my honest review.
July 3, 2020
This was probably one of the funniest book I've read in a while. It was clever and witty and had me laughing out loud at so many moments.
THE SCAM LIST revolves around a smart and sharp-tongued kid named Boone. His thoughts and descriptions of people and places were probably my favorite part of this whole book. If I could have him narrate me through life, I think I'd always be laughing.
Something I loved about this book was the many different ways Boone knew how to scam people. And I love that we learned these tricks as a reader from him. It made me feel like I was in on the scam with him. Before reading this, I kinda just thought I'd tag along for one big scam and that would be the book, but I like that I was able to experience multiple small ones as well.
One thing that kept me from giving this book five stars was the pace of it. The book took longer to get to the actionable parts of the story than I would have liked. Sure, there were some small adventures along the way, but I kept finding myself thinking, "Okay. But when are we going to do this thing?"
Overall, I really enjoyed this book! The humor was top-notch, the story-line was fun and wit-driven, and there were so many characters to love. I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a laugh-out-loud comedy and adventure.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
THE SCAM LIST revolves around a smart and sharp-tongued kid named Boone. His thoughts and descriptions of people and places were probably my favorite part of this whole book. If I could have him narrate me through life, I think I'd always be laughing.
Something I loved about this book was the many different ways Boone knew how to scam people. And I love that we learned these tricks as a reader from him. It made me feel like I was in on the scam with him. Before reading this, I kinda just thought I'd tag along for one big scam and that would be the book, but I like that I was able to experience multiple small ones as well.
One thing that kept me from giving this book five stars was the pace of it. The book took longer to get to the actionable parts of the story than I would have liked. Sure, there were some small adventures along the way, but I kept finding myself thinking, "Okay. But when are we going to do this thing?"
Overall, I really enjoyed this book! The humor was top-notch, the story-line was fun and wit-driven, and there were so many characters to love. I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a laugh-out-loud comedy and adventure.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 3, 2020
Boone McReedy reminds me of my teenage nephew, and you can bet he'll be getting a copy for Christmas! Dinan's novel is funny and engaging, with a cast of characters at once familiar and distinctive. I'll be recommending this to teenage boys -- and to my older brothers (some in their 50s) -- and I'm confident they'll all enjoy it!
Nota bene ("Note well" -- in the Latin dictionary which may or may not have been shoplifted early in the novel): I received an Advanced Reader Copy which I have voluntarily reviewed.
Nota bene ("Note well" -- in the Latin dictionary which may or may not have been shoplifted early in the novel): I received an Advanced Reader Copy which I have voluntarily reviewed.
March 3, 2021
I got this eARC from Netgalley in exhange for a honest review
This was really not for me. Sure it was some parts here and there that was a bit funny but not laugh-out-loud funny. Boone was alright, but i felt he tried too hard to be funny and i didn`t find it funny, so there we go. Darby was alright, but not too interesting, sadly.
This was really not for me. Sure it was some parts here and there that was a bit funny but not laugh-out-loud funny. Boone was alright, but i felt he tried too hard to be funny and i didn`t find it funny, so there we go. Darby was alright, but not too interesting, sadly.
August 3, 2020
As a high school English teacher, I have the opportunity to read a wide variety of young adult novels - dystopias, vampire fantasies, stories dealing with important high school issues. The most memorable ones, regardless of their genre, have two features in common: interesting characters and a great story. The Scam List by Kurt Dinan has both of these. Boone McReedy is an entertaining and unreliable narrator, a scam artist from birth. Darby West is the tough girl with a sensitive heart you want to date or be. Together they look to save Boone’s mom’s business, a quirky flea market the fancy competition wants to destroy. Dinan fills his story with hilarious banter and intriguing characters and enough twists and turns to keep you guessing how it will all turn out until the last page. He has a gift for keeping the story moving and not getting caught up in a lot of navel-gazing. Like his previous novel, Don’t Get Caught, this a great book for those looking for a fun and quick read. Highly recommended!
August 5, 2020
A wonderful coming-of-age novel that is funny, sarcastic, and a bit dark at times. Our protagonist, Boone, is a charming scam artist, who is trying to discover who his is as an individual in a world that is a bit dark from the shadow cast by this father.
This librarian will have it on the shelves of our physical and virtual shelves shortly. Thank you for the advanced read, Mr. Dinan.
This librarian will have it on the shelves of our physical and virtual shelves shortly. Thank you for the advanced read, Mr. Dinan.
September 16, 2020
*I was kindly given a copy of this in exchange for an honest review on Netgalley*
I am on a streak of amazing reads recently.
This book blew me away. If your a fan of movies like Red and Oceans 8, or Tv shows like Suits and White Collar then this book is for you! By my extensive knowledge of con artist visual entertainment you can probably guess that I am a lover of the genre. And with that high-caliber of qualification, I certify myself as an expert in this field. And boy! This did not disappointed.
The plot - outstanding and gripping.
The characters - complex, lovable and deep.
The humour - had me in stitches so often I had to stop reading to catch my breath.
But the thing that made this rise above so many other books I've read was the writing.
It is unlike anything I've ever read. On the surface its conversational and great to read. And then, you get these amazing moments where Boone will break the 4th wall and talk directly at the reader. Not only that but he starts to con you! And you fall for it time and time again, despite knowing that you shouldn't. It immerses you into the story like nothing I've ever read because you feel like one of the marks yourself.
Don't even get me started on Boone as a character! Without him (and the incredible way he is written) this book would be good, but nothing stand out. He makes the entire thing go from a 3 to 5+.
Trust me you need to read this. Even if YA isn't your typical genre, you need to read this. The writing is a work of genius. I can't wait to read more from Kurt Dinan.
Instant favourite of the year!
Full Review Here: https://hawthornbookreviews.com/2020/...
I am on a streak of amazing reads recently.
This book blew me away. If your a fan of movies like Red and Oceans 8, or Tv shows like Suits and White Collar then this book is for you! By my extensive knowledge of con artist visual entertainment you can probably guess that I am a lover of the genre. And with that high-caliber of qualification, I certify myself as an expert in this field. And boy! This did not disappointed.
The plot - outstanding and gripping.
The characters - complex, lovable and deep.
The humour - had me in stitches so often I had to stop reading to catch my breath.
But the thing that made this rise above so many other books I've read was the writing.
It is unlike anything I've ever read. On the surface its conversational and great to read. And then, you get these amazing moments where Boone will break the 4th wall and talk directly at the reader. Not only that but he starts to con you! And you fall for it time and time again, despite knowing that you shouldn't. It immerses you into the story like nothing I've ever read because you feel like one of the marks yourself.
Don't even get me started on Boone as a character! Without him (and the incredible way he is written) this book would be good, but nothing stand out. He makes the entire thing go from a 3 to 5+.
Trust me you need to read this. Even if YA isn't your typical genre, you need to read this. The writing is a work of genius. I can't wait to read more from Kurt Dinan.
Instant favourite of the year!
Full Review Here: https://hawthornbookreviews.com/2020/...
November 11, 2020
Another good book by the author, but I felt that there was a missed opportunity to set the stage a bit better. The "voice" of the main character was right on the money and caused a good chuckle or two, but many of the other characters, including the main protagonist were lifeless shells who were driving the plot along. I enjoyed it, but it could have been a solid 5 star book with a little more work on the story and the world.
June 25, 2020
If the young adult in your life needs some humor and a fun, down-to-earth read with relatable characters and a mix of morals thrown in, Kurt Dinan has written the book for them! (Although I will caution, there is a bit of language, alcohol use in here too.)
As a mom, I try to find books I hope will keep my young adult's attention - and if I'm lucky, will result in some laughter -- and if I'm super lucky, will have some good life lessons intertwined throughout the story.
As I began reading the The Scam List, I was quite entertained myself and quickly caught up in the lives of Boone and Darby and couldn't wait to finish the book to see what happens! I was truly captured from the very beginning.
This book is not sappy or full of teeny-bopper romance, but rather realistic characters that you really wish could be your friends in real life by the time you turn that very last page.
The main character, Boone, is a con-artist young man who helps out with the family business and has a close relationship with his mom. But then when Mr. Dinan brings in Darby, a strong, tough female who challenges Boone and his choices and morals and relationship patterns - but who also believes in second, third - and maybe even fourth - chances, I found myself so impressed with both of them.
But wait till you meet the other characters that are their friends - and enemies - and I swear you will be sure you know someone just like that person from your own school days!
You are quickly drawn into the story from page 1, especially the fun of learning how Boone plays out his "cons" to make money and how Darby finds her way to release her pent-up anger and frustration as an awesome, kick-butt karate master, but who has a hidden heart of gold.
The novel brings to light some very real issues teens and young adults face with broken families and tragic circumstances and finding their way in the world and moving forward, despite challenging circumstances, but in a very reachable way to question the reader as to their choices and how life isn't always fair - but you never give up.
Between the realistic imaging of the family business - The Mountain, an indoor, flea-market type place with a plethora of booths that sell just about anything and everything, to the jumbo talking Dinosaur at the entrance Boone sits in and welcomes and teases new visitors, to the people who maintain those booths and their eccentric personalities -- you learn it does take a village to support and raise children into adults - even when that village contains some questionable and passionate old-timers!
As you follow Boone and Darby in their effort to save The Mountain against a very competitive, across-the-street, modern booth flea-market you will feel joy and happiness and anger and frustration at just how far a son will go to help protect his mother, try to figure out how much he may or may not be like his con-artist father, watch Boone realize how important a role Darby plays in his life and adventures, and the very real way life can take on so many twists and turns, you will see the con-artist perform at his very best - and also be a victim to cons himself!
I very much enjoyed this book - and truthfully, most especially the psychology behind how and why the cons work so well on people was a bonus.
This was my first book of Mr. Dinan's and I am certainly looking forward to seeing what else he has in store for his readers next!
(I'm very grateful for the digital ARC from #NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review of #TheScamList.)
As a mom, I try to find books I hope will keep my young adult's attention - and if I'm lucky, will result in some laughter -- and if I'm super lucky, will have some good life lessons intertwined throughout the story.
As I began reading the The Scam List, I was quite entertained myself and quickly caught up in the lives of Boone and Darby and couldn't wait to finish the book to see what happens! I was truly captured from the very beginning.
This book is not sappy or full of teeny-bopper romance, but rather realistic characters that you really wish could be your friends in real life by the time you turn that very last page.
The main character, Boone, is a con-artist young man who helps out with the family business and has a close relationship with his mom. But then when Mr. Dinan brings in Darby, a strong, tough female who challenges Boone and his choices and morals and relationship patterns - but who also believes in second, third - and maybe even fourth - chances, I found myself so impressed with both of them.
But wait till you meet the other characters that are their friends - and enemies - and I swear you will be sure you know someone just like that person from your own school days!
You are quickly drawn into the story from page 1, especially the fun of learning how Boone plays out his "cons" to make money and how Darby finds her way to release her pent-up anger and frustration as an awesome, kick-butt karate master, but who has a hidden heart of gold.
The novel brings to light some very real issues teens and young adults face with broken families and tragic circumstances and finding their way in the world and moving forward, despite challenging circumstances, but in a very reachable way to question the reader as to their choices and how life isn't always fair - but you never give up.
Between the realistic imaging of the family business - The Mountain, an indoor, flea-market type place with a plethora of booths that sell just about anything and everything, to the jumbo talking Dinosaur at the entrance Boone sits in and welcomes and teases new visitors, to the people who maintain those booths and their eccentric personalities -- you learn it does take a village to support and raise children into adults - even when that village contains some questionable and passionate old-timers!
As you follow Boone and Darby in their effort to save The Mountain against a very competitive, across-the-street, modern booth flea-market you will feel joy and happiness and anger and frustration at just how far a son will go to help protect his mother, try to figure out how much he may or may not be like his con-artist father, watch Boone realize how important a role Darby plays in his life and adventures, and the very real way life can take on so many twists and turns, you will see the con-artist perform at his very best - and also be a victim to cons himself!
I very much enjoyed this book - and truthfully, most especially the psychology behind how and why the cons work so well on people was a bonus.
This was my first book of Mr. Dinan's and I am certainly looking forward to seeing what else he has in store for his readers next!
(I'm very grateful for the digital ARC from #NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review of #TheScamList.)
August 3, 2020
Get Ready for the One-Liners
I recently checked out The Scam List to see if it may be appropriate for my young reluctant reader. He’s a bit picky about what he reads. He's also at a bit of a transitional age where I’m never sure how “mature” of a text he can handle. Though I read The Scam List by Kurt Dinan with my son in mind, I found myself enjoying the story quite a bit myself. Do I have the reading mindset of a 10-year-old boy? Maybe. As The Scam List main character Boone once asks, “What am I, a psychotherapist?”
Boone also asks himself other blow-off questions to set his mind at ease as he goes about his scamming exploits:
“Who am I, Neil deGrasse Tyson?”
“What am I, a theologian?”
“Who am I, your fifth-grade math teacher?”
These little questions are a part of several rapid fire one-liners that seem to end nearly every piece of Boone’s inner monologue throughout the book. This creates a fun, comedic flow throughout the well-paced action of the Scam List. The story is a universal one all about a young screw up using his own talents - as underhanded as they may be - to redeem himself from his biggest mistakes. That theme is perfect for my young and reluctant reader.
The characters are also likeable and complex. Even though Boone isn’t always the most upright citizen, he is funny and easy going. His deeds - both selfish and selfless - are worth discussing with the budding delinquent in your life. The other characters are a bit more archetypal and have analogous characters in most teen-oriented movies. That’s not meant as a criticism, I think that helps with the flow and sucks-in those reluctant readers.
In the end, I decided that Boone’s exploits might be a bit mature for my 10-year-old (there is some drinking and comical innuendo in those witty one-liners). There’s nothing too pearl-clutchingly shocking. Thus, I can see this quick novel (estimated 4-6 hours of reading time) ideal for the middle school crowd and up. Having read Dinan’s previous book, Don’t Get Caught, this age group seems to be his wheelhouse. So be sure to check that one out, too. I’m not a particular critical critic. If I am entertained for a few hours, it’s worth the stars. This one gets all the stars.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy which I have voluntarily reviewed
I recently checked out The Scam List to see if it may be appropriate for my young reluctant reader. He’s a bit picky about what he reads. He's also at a bit of a transitional age where I’m never sure how “mature” of a text he can handle. Though I read The Scam List by Kurt Dinan with my son in mind, I found myself enjoying the story quite a bit myself. Do I have the reading mindset of a 10-year-old boy? Maybe. As The Scam List main character Boone once asks, “What am I, a psychotherapist?”
Boone also asks himself other blow-off questions to set his mind at ease as he goes about his scamming exploits:
“Who am I, Neil deGrasse Tyson?”
“What am I, a theologian?”
“Who am I, your fifth-grade math teacher?”
These little questions are a part of several rapid fire one-liners that seem to end nearly every piece of Boone’s inner monologue throughout the book. This creates a fun, comedic flow throughout the well-paced action of the Scam List. The story is a universal one all about a young screw up using his own talents - as underhanded as they may be - to redeem himself from his biggest mistakes. That theme is perfect for my young and reluctant reader.
The characters are also likeable and complex. Even though Boone isn’t always the most upright citizen, he is funny and easy going. His deeds - both selfish and selfless - are worth discussing with the budding delinquent in your life. The other characters are a bit more archetypal and have analogous characters in most teen-oriented movies. That’s not meant as a criticism, I think that helps with the flow and sucks-in those reluctant readers.
In the end, I decided that Boone’s exploits might be a bit mature for my 10-year-old (there is some drinking and comical innuendo in those witty one-liners). There’s nothing too pearl-clutchingly shocking. Thus, I can see this quick novel (estimated 4-6 hours of reading time) ideal for the middle school crowd and up. Having read Dinan’s previous book, Don’t Get Caught, this age group seems to be his wheelhouse. So be sure to check that one out, too. I’m not a particular critical critic. If I am entertained for a few hours, it’s worth the stars. This one gets all the stars.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy which I have voluntarily reviewed
June 28, 2020
From the very start of this Ocean's Eleven style con caper, I was drawn in by the fast-paced and witty narrative. Boone McReedy is a shady, narcissistic, unreliable narrator who, along with the kick-ass Darby West, needs to pull off enough cons to make up $15,000 of money scammed from his mum's business. I loved the originality to this idea as well as the colourful world Dinan has built around Boone's life - the weird and wonderful booth owners in Golden Mountain flea market (aka Garbage Mountain) along with Boone's friends, enemies and frenemies, were all characters who had distinct personalities and were a complete joy to read.
The zippy pace of the different cons kept me completely immersed in this book, rooting for Boone despite his obvious flaws. The fact I wanted him to succeed regardless of some of his unlikable tendencies (influenced by his jailed dad perhaps?) highlights how cleverly Dinan crafts Boone's character development. The fact he turns into some sort of Robin Hood/ Jigsaw vigilante, only scamming those who deserved it, at Darby's insistence, definitely helped his cause with the reader.
For me, this ended up being a 4 star read because I struggled to truly invest in saving Garbage Mountain. The stalls are lovably wacky but Boone continually admits that the building is dirty and off putting for customers in comparison to the luxury building across the road. I wanted to root for the underdog, and the stall holder's livelihoods, but I was baffled as to why Boone's mother wanted to buy what seems like a complete money pit and why their focus throughout is survival rather than improvement. Perhaps a prequel focusing on the beginnings here and Boone's dastardly dad is what we need next? I'd read it! Plus, any sequels Dinan fancies throwing our way.
Overall, this is a really fun read and I will definitely be recommending it to my school libraries. All in all, Dinan holds the reader at just the right amount of knowledge about each scam which is unfolding, ensuring there are plenty of surprises along the way. Don't trust everything you read... but enjoy the thrill of the ride as you do!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher who provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The zippy pace of the different cons kept me completely immersed in this book, rooting for Boone despite his obvious flaws. The fact I wanted him to succeed regardless of some of his unlikable tendencies (influenced by his jailed dad perhaps?) highlights how cleverly Dinan crafts Boone's character development. The fact he turns into some sort of Robin Hood/ Jigsaw vigilante, only scamming those who deserved it, at Darby's insistence, definitely helped his cause with the reader.
For me, this ended up being a 4 star read because I struggled to truly invest in saving Garbage Mountain. The stalls are lovably wacky but Boone continually admits that the building is dirty and off putting for customers in comparison to the luxury building across the road. I wanted to root for the underdog, and the stall holder's livelihoods, but I was baffled as to why Boone's mother wanted to buy what seems like a complete money pit and why their focus throughout is survival rather than improvement. Perhaps a prequel focusing on the beginnings here and Boone's dastardly dad is what we need next? I'd read it! Plus, any sequels Dinan fancies throwing our way.
Overall, this is a really fun read and I will definitely be recommending it to my school libraries. All in all, Dinan holds the reader at just the right amount of knowledge about each scam which is unfolding, ensuring there are plenty of surprises along the way. Don't trust everything you read... but enjoy the thrill of the ride as you do!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher who provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2020
Boone McReedy, a high school conman, finds himself the victim of a scam after losing $15,000 of his mother's money. Now this smooth talking charmer has to team up with Darby West, a kick-ass, strong, independent and smart young lady who just so happens to be Boone's ex-girlfriend. Together they decide to only scam people who deserve to be scammed so they can make back the money that will save their parents' business.
"My dad's in jail, my mom owns a massive junk emporium,
and I spend most of my days in a dinousaur. How's your life going?"
I didn't have as much fun reading this as I thought I'd have. Don't get me wrong, this book wasn't bad at all, but I think my expectations for this book were too high, from seeing all the good reviews on Netgalley and Goodreads. It was definitely a lighthearted and enjoyable read, but I found it took a little too long for something "big" to happen. The slow pace kept me from reading longer than an hour at a time, until the "final con", which is when I finished the book in one sitting. I think I was just expecting more from the "best teen con artist team around".
Speaking of con artists, the cons were definitely my favourite part of this book. The writer explains just enough to help you understand what's going on, while at the same time still leaving some room for surprises. It was also nice that Boone was explaining the cons to the reader because that definitely made me feel more involved in the story. Another very positive thing about this book: Boone's character development, wit and sarcasm and the fact that this book has multiple badass women in it!
If you're looking for a light read with cons, heart and humour: I say give this one a go.
"You have my word. Would I lie to you?"
"My dad's in jail, my mom owns a massive junk emporium,
and I spend most of my days in a dinousaur. How's your life going?"
I didn't have as much fun reading this as I thought I'd have. Don't get me wrong, this book wasn't bad at all, but I think my expectations for this book were too high, from seeing all the good reviews on Netgalley and Goodreads. It was definitely a lighthearted and enjoyable read, but I found it took a little too long for something "big" to happen. The slow pace kept me from reading longer than an hour at a time, until the "final con", which is when I finished the book in one sitting. I think I was just expecting more from the "best teen con artist team around".
Speaking of con artists, the cons were definitely my favourite part of this book. The writer explains just enough to help you understand what's going on, while at the same time still leaving some room for surprises. It was also nice that Boone was explaining the cons to the reader because that definitely made me feel more involved in the story. Another very positive thing about this book: Boone's character development, wit and sarcasm and the fact that this book has multiple badass women in it!
If you're looking for a light read with cons, heart and humour: I say give this one a go.
"You have my word. Would I lie to you?"
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