Swindle
by Gordon Korman

    SWINDLE by Gordon Korman
    Category:  Contemporary
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 6+
    Release Date:  3/1/08
    Publisher:  Scholastic
    Reviewed by:  Sally Kruger, aka "Readingjunky"
    Rating:  5 Stars


    Griffin Bing had a plan. He invited everyone he could think of to a sleepover at the Old Rockford House. It was
    scheduled to be demolished the next day, but Griffin hoped to use the sleepover as a protest of sorts. He was very
    disappointed that only his best friend, Ben, showed up.

    A group of the kids had the idea that the city could build a skate park on the property when the creepy old house
    was torn down, but the city officials had other ideas. They thought a museum was a better idea. Griffin had
    organized the sleepover hoping to get the attention their plan deserved. Instead, all he got was a night in his sleeping
    bag listening to his friend Ben snore.

    Before leaving the old house, the boys did a little exploring. Griffin accidentally discovered a secret drawer, and
    tucked in that drawer was a card – an old baseball card with a picture of Babe Ruth. He was sure it was valuable
    and would help solve his parents’ financial problems.

    After a narrow escape from the wrecking ball, Griffin and Ben hurry to Palomino’s Emporium of Collectibles and
    Memorabilia to get the opinion of an expert. Much to their disappointment, S. Wendell Palomino gives them bad
    news. The card is a reproduction and worth very little. He offers them $120, and they take the money and run.

    Imagine their surprise and fury when the nightly news is carrying the story of one S. Wendell Palomino and his
    incredible discovery of a valuable baseball trading card valued at $1,000,000. What follows is Griffin’s new plan to
    get back the card he believes is rightfully his.

    Gordon Korman has once again created a story sure to captivate middle grade audiences. His adventurous
    characters, great use of humor, and non-stop action make SWINDLE great fun to read. The easy, fast-moving
    pace will hold the attention of readers of all levels and will also work well as a read-aloud in many classrooms.