Fizzy Whiz Kid

Readers will laugh along with all the misadventuresand sneak a peek behind the Hollywood curtainin this sweet and funny novel. When Mitchell Mathis moves to Hollywood with his academic parents, he soon realizes hes the only ordinary kid in a school of the powerful and famous. Theres Skywalker Wong, whose parents are special effects gurus. And Julia Jodie Schwartz, named after her agent fathers two highest-earning clients. And Dash Silverman, whose parents write the movies that everyone else seems to have memorized. In an attempt to feel like less of an outsider, Mitch goes to an open casting call, where he ends up being cast in a soda commercial that launches a popular catchphrase. Suddenly hes on TV, signing autographs, and riding in limos. But when the ad starts getting negative attention and he doesnt have time for his old friends and interests, fame doesnt seem like so much fun anymore. Hell need all his acting skillsand the help of his Hollywood-savvy classmatesto figure out how to go back to being a normal kid again. Praise for the work of Maiya WilliamsBookSense PickInternational Reading Association Intermediate Fiction AwardSouthern California Booksellers Association Childrens Book PrizeThe fast-paced plot and smooth transition from everyday life to fantasy adventure make this a good choice for reluctant readers. School Library JournalFast-paced historical hi-jinks . . . VOYAVivid . . . deftly combines fantasy and historical fiction . . . Its a trip well worth the time. New York Times Book ReviewAction-packed and laden with good-natured humor, Williamss tale is a journey worth taking. Publishers WeeklyPraise for TheFizzy Whiz Kid"e;Seriously committed film industry wannabes as well as erstwhile daydreamers will find a lot of good information here about how Hollywood magic gets made. TheBulletin of the Center for Children's BooksWilliams breezy tale is as addictive and bubbly as a Fizzy Whiz itself, and her experience in the entertainment industry packs real value into her descriptions of auditions, movie sets, and agent negotiations. Booklist