The Pennypackers Go on Vacation by Lisa Doan, Marta Kissi
Published by Roaring Brook Press on June 25th 2019
ISBN: 1250154111
Pages: 272
Goodreads

Charlie Pennypacker feels his dreams are finally realized when his penny pinching father agrees to take them on a Disney cruise. When Charlie sets his eyes on the old fishing boat labeled Wisney Cruises, he embarks on an unexpected adventure involving his former best friend (now enemy) and scary looking men (maybe involved with the mob).  Charlie ends up saving the day learning about friendship, forgiveness, teamwork, and second chances along the way. Doan has created a novel filled with eccentric characters, humor, mystery, and adventure.  From the six year old troublemaking sister to a chef who only prepares eggs each meal readers will find something to giggle about. Line drawings interspersed throughout the book assist the reader in visualizing the text.  Teachers and parents may find the mystery to quickly and easily wrapped up and characters relatively static. Readers 9-12 will enjoy this summer read while trying to solve the mystery and being glad they are not on vacation with the Pennypackers.

Reviewed by Heather Hale, Easton School District, Easton