Title: The Strange Case of Origami Yoda
Author: Tom Angleberger
First published March 1, 2010
141 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780810984257 (ISBN10: 0810984253)
Rating: 3.9
Overview
Meet Dwight, the sixth-grade oddball who wears the same T-shirt for a month and goes by the name “Captain Dwight.” Tommy, who sits with him at lunch, finds Dwight’s quirks embarrassing. However, Dwight has a talent for making origami, and one day he creates an origami finger puppet of Yoda.
That’s when things take a mysterious turn. Origami Yoda can predict the future and give advice on how to deal with tricky situations, and his predictions are always accurate.
Soon, the entire sixth grade is lining up to ask for his advice. But Tommy is skeptical – how can a finger puppet be so wise when Dwight himself is so clueless?
Is Origami Yoda tapping into the Force? Tommy must solve the mystery before he takes Yoda’s advice on a matter of utmost importance – a girl.
This is Tommy’s case file on “The Strange Case of Origami Yoda.”
About the Author
Tom Angleberger is an accomplished author who has made a fascinating career transition from artist to writer. He shares his insights with readers as a columnist for the Roanoke Times in Roanoke, Virginia.
Interestingly enough, Tom began writing his first book when he was still in middle school! He is also happily married to author-illustrator Cece Bell, and they reside in Christianburg, Virginia.
Editoral Review
The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger is a delightful children’s book that combines humor and mystery with an innovative storytelling method. Published in March 2010, the book has become a classic of its genre and a favorite among young readers.
Tom Angleberger is an American children’s author, known for his humorous and irreverent writing style. He has published over 30 books for young readers, including the Origami Yoda series, of which The Strange Case of Origami Yoda is the first installment.
The book follows the story of a group of sixth-grade students who are trying to solve the mystery of whether the Origami Yoda puppet, created by fellow student Dwight, can predict the future. The main character, Tommy, is skeptical of Origami Yoda’s powers, but as he hears more and more testimonials from his classmates, he begins to wonder if there is more to the puppet than meets the eye.
Set in McQuarrie Middle School, the book explores the dynamics of sixth-grade friendships, social hierarchies, and the struggle to be accepted for who you are. With its relatable characters and charming plot, The Strange Case of Origami Yoda appeals to children of all ages and backgrounds.
The book’s unique approach, in which the story is told through a mix of written diary entries and doodles, adds to the book’s charm and makes it stand out from other children’s books. Angleberger’s style is light-hearted and engaging, with well-drawn characters and witty dialogue.
One of the strengths of The Strange Case of Origami Yoda is its focus on kindness and acceptance. The book sends a positive message about the importance of empathy and understanding, while also addressing serious issues such as bullying, peer pressure, and self-esteem.
However, the book is not without its flaws. Some of the characters feel one-dimensional, and the plot could have been more complex.
Also, the book is written for a younger audience, which may limit its appeal to older readers. Despite these limitations, The Strange Case of Origami Yoda is a charming and entertaining read that will keep children engaged from beginning to end.
It’s a book that will appeal to both boys and girls, making it a great choice for classroom reading or family reading time. In conclusion, The Strange Case of Origami Yoda is an enjoyable and heartwarming book that deserves a place on every child’s reading list.
With its clever storytelling and positive message, it’s a book that will leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages. My rating is 4 out of 5, for its strong message, but limited appeal to older readers.
