A review by couillac
Also Known as Elvis by James Howe

4.0

Even young readers who've never before encountered the Gang of Five will enjoy this good-humored and affecting story. Skeezie's not excited about spending the first few weeks of summer without best friends Addie, Joe, and Bobby (the stars of some of Howe's earlier books), but things get even more complicated when his dad returns to town five years after abandoning the family. Skeezie is a relatable young teen, forced into taking on adult responsibilities but still understandably awkward and juvenile much of the time. His good nature and affection for his friends and family keep the story light without taking away from the seriousness of his situation. His parents both come across as flawed, human adults struggling to make the right decisions. Howe stays away from melodrama, keeping the story firmly grounded in believable, mundane events that nonetheless factor big in Skeezie's life. A resolution that provides closure for all the characters rounds out a satisfying, straight forward, and emotionally authentic realistic read perfect for middle schoolers.