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Paulsen's latest recurring character, Kevin Spencer, practiced deceit in Liar, Liar and put on his Trump wig in Flat Broke (both 2011). Here he applies his obsessively analytical mind to the conundrum of love. He'd like to learn a little more about how humans go about this whole dating thing before approaching Tina, who he has had his eye on for a couple of books now. In a series of often funny and sometimes revealing escapades, he whips up a romantic dinner for his parents (disaster), asks a coven of his older sister's friends to assess his likability (horror), plays matchmaker for his friend's dumb cousin and an out-of-his-league neighbor (surprising success), and even organizes a speed-dating event at the school's fun fair (where he watches his rival score a handful of girls' numbers). Paulsen's wit and wisdom continue to cruise on all cylinders in this swift, enjoyable read for boys (and girls who'd like to understand boys trying to understand girls). HIGH-DEMAND BACKSTORY: Paulsen is among the most widely read writers for middle-schoolers, and readers who enjoyed Liar, Liar and Flat Broke will flock to this one.--Chipman, Ian Copyright 2010 Booklist

School Library Journal
(c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Gr 5-8-Kevin Spencer, who first appeared in Liar, Liar and Flat Broke (both Random, 2011), has learned not to lie or to take financial advantage of people, so the wiser, more mature 14-year-old is sure that his quest for a girlfriend will prove fruitful. He has his eye on the most beautiful girl in the world, Tina Zabinski, and he knows he is perfect boyfriend material. He just has to let her see his amazing qualities, which proves difficult as he becomes tongue-tied and falls down whenever he sees her. Kevin approaches his quest scientifically, by observing "variations in romantic behavior." He observes his parents' seeming lack of romance and his many-times-married Auntie Buzz while honing his matchmaking skills by attempting to pair up his friends, siblings, and acquaintances. Naturally, his plans don't pan out as Kevin hopes, and his time may be running out when smooth-talking heartthrob Cash arrives at their school with his eyes on Tina. As always, Paulsen's voice is spot-on with likable characters and humorous situations. Both boys and girls will identify with the awkwardness of romantic crushes. This title is even funnier than the first two and stands alone. It will be love at first sight.-Michele Shaw, Quail Run Elementary School, San Ramon, CA (c) Copyright 2012. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.