Victoria E. Pannell and Thorir Sigfusson’s The Big Dream is a lively, humor-filled adventure that captures the magic of summer, childhood friendships, and one boy’s determination to chase an unlikely dream. It follows Brandon Woodberry, a kid with an endless imagination, a mischievous pet crow named Ralph, and two best friends, Josh and Skip, as they set out to enter a remote-controlled car race. The problem? They need to raise nearly $2,000 to buy a car kit and customize it. Their summer becomes a whirlwind of hustling for cash, plotting pigeon-catching schemes, and dealing with school, family, and growing up. With its warm humor and engaging storytelling, the book is a delightful ode to youthful ambition.

Brandon’s voice is instantly engaging and full of personality and wit. His internal monologues, whether he’s trying to stay awake in English class or navigating a hilarious dinner-table debate about his summer plans, feel authentic and relatable. The humor is spot-on, and I found myself laughing out loud more than once. The authors do a fantastic job of making the characters feel like real kids, complete with wild ideas, exaggerated reactions, and a boundless sense of possibility.

One of the book’s strongest aspects is its pacing. There’s never a dull moment. Whether it’s the boys pulling off a chaotic car wash, burning cookies during a bake sale, or dealing with an infuriatingly smug rich guy who tosses them a measly nickel as a tip, each chapter propels the story forward. The setbacks the boys face feel real, but there’s a persistent optimism that makes you root for them. Ralph the crow is another highlight, and his antics, from stealing cookies to strategically “decorating” a rude customer’s car, add a layer of unexpected hilarity to the story. His presence gives the book a slight whimsy, making it even more charming.

Beyond the humor and adventure, The Big Dream has an underlying message about perseverance and teamwork. The boys don’t always see eye to eye, and at times, their plans seem completely doomed (especially when their money-making schemes fall short). However, their friendship carries them through, and their determination to see the project through despite all odds is inspiring. The moment when they finally start believing they can do it is when they shift from seeing obstacles to finding solutions, is genuinely uplifting. It’s a wonderful message for kids.

I’d recommend The Big Dream to middle-grade readers who love stories about friendship, big ideas, and crazy summer escapades. It’s funny, heartfelt, and full of that electrifying feeling of endless summer days where anything seems possible. Whether you’re here for the humor, the adventure, or the sheer joy of watching a group of kids take on a seemingly impossible dream, this book delivers.

Pages: 312 | ASIN : B0DRZ88WZ9