Tito the Bonecrusher by Melissa Thomson
Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR) on March 5, 2019
ISBN: 0374303533
Pages: 240
Genres: Humor
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
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“Tito the Bonecrusher” is a standalone novel by Melissa Thomson. Oliver’s father is sent to jail and Oliver’s sister is very upset that he is breaking his promise to come to her graduation (since he’s incarcerated). Oliver and his friends come up with a wacky plan to get the attention of his favorite former wrestler/now action movie star, Tito the Bonecrusher, so that he can help Oliver break his father out of jail.

Humorous events occur while trying to bring his family back together. Themes of family, forgiveness, and grief follow throughout the novel. Oliver and his friends go through several unsuccessful schemes while trying to get Tito’s attention. By the end, Oliver and his family are closer and there is a satisfying and somewhat realistic ending.

Aimed at kids aged 8 to 11, “Tito the Bonecrusher” is a good purchase for large middle grade collections where humorous books are popular.

Reviewed by Kate Radke, Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook.