The Dumbest Idea Ever!

by Jimmy Gownley

Paperback, 2014

Status

Available

Call number

741.5

Collection

Publication

GRAPHIX (2014), 240 pages

Description

"What if the dumbest idea ever turned your life upside down? At thirteen, Jimmy was popular, at the top of his class, and the leading scorer on his basketball team. But all that changed when chicken pox forced him to miss the championship game. Things went from bad to worse when he got pneumonia and missed even more school. Before Jimmy knew it, his grades were sinking and nothing seemed to be going right. How did Jimmy turn things around, get back on top at school, and land a date with the cutest girl in class?"--Front jacket flap.

User reviews

LibraryThing member loveofreading
The Dumbest Idea Ever! is a graphic novel from Jimmy Gownley, publishing March 1st from Graphix (an imprint of Scholastic). At 240 pages, it makes for a easy read for reluctant readers, and despite being a graphic novel, both boys and girls will enjoy the story. Based on the author/artist's own
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life, this is a highly enjoyable novel for readers ages 10-14.

The Dumbest Idea Ever! is funny, true, and honest. Life is hard, and it never goes the way you plan for it go. This is a book that teaches readers that even when things don't go your way (you get sick, you miss your big game, you miss your chance with something, etc), that life has other plans for you; bigger and better plans. Eventually, things work out.

Readers can also learn about ways to deal with stress, frustration, and difficult situations. For Jimmy, and a lot of other kids, a creative outlet is often very effective. And for some (again, like Jimmy), this creative outlet might even be your true calling. Writing a comic book because it makes you happy, might lead you to what you're ultimately meant to do — become a writer! You never know what the universe is trying to tell you, so don't give up on the things you love just because other people think it's dumb. If you love it, it's worth something.

An inspiring, funny, highly relatable, and undeniably enjoyable book!

4 Stars
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LibraryThing member WickedWoWestwood
A cute comic about how an artist came to draw and write his own comics at a young age. Great for tweens and teens interested in graphic novels! The art is alright, very cartoon-y but it shows a level of artistic talent that is obtainable for budding artists!
LibraryThing member pussreboots
The Dumbest Idea Ever! by Jimmy Gownley is a graphic novel style memoir about how the author first discovered comic books and graphic novels, and eventually, how he decided to write them himself.

Jimmmy was having trouble getting excited about school after chicken pox keeps him home during the
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championship game. With sports out of question and lots of homework to catch up on, he sort of fell apart. Although depression is never mentioned, it seems like something more than just teenage angst or ennui.

Eventually, his out are comic books. Convincing his teachers that they have value is another thing. Comic books and graphic novels (aka "extra thick comic books) are childish and without any literary or educational merit.

Considering I've heard the same sentiments about graphic novels and comic books from educators and parents, I found Jimmy's ongoing campaign to let them be allowed in school fascinating. I'm not saying they should replace all other reading, but I see no problem in including them in school work!
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LibraryThing member Jennifer LeGault
Jimmy, a popular 13 year old, has it all--good looks, popular, and a sports star. After falling ill, his life changes and not for the better. Jimmy has a bad idea that ends in changing everything.
LibraryThing member jennybeast
Pretty cool -- I liked the biographical aspects, the kid-empowerment parts, and the thoughtful tackling of how to be a good human being. Nicely done and funny.

Original language

English

Original publication date

2014-02-25

Physical description

240 p.; 5.5 x 0.75 inches

ISBN

054545347X / 9780545453479
Page: 0.6562 seconds