*
“The safety of two worlds—both equally complex and populated by equally interesting characters—is at stake in this exciting story that will pique the curiosity of mechanically minded kids. Clunky robots, centuries-old mysteries, and unlikely friendships add intrigue to the already appealing premise of a secret city of scrap people hidden beneath a junkyard. With a perfect blend of emotion and humor, the pages practically turn themselves.” —Foreword Reviews
*
“I expected a quick, fun, middle grade adventure story. And while I did get that, I also got much much more. Jerome, the main protagonist, is a kid dealing with heartbreak and loss. When he stumbles upon a Scrapper in the junk yard near home, the two become fast friends. … The story quickly goes much deeper, throwing these two friends into the adventure of a lifetime. They have to save the junk yard, and, in turn, the Scrapper city beneath. But Jerome’s father is working for the company intending to buy the junk yard, which complicates things even further. The characters here are well written and realistic. Jerome is intelligent, but seems his age. Arkie, his Scrapper friend, is kind and young. Cici Delgado, Jerome’s sometimes friend/sometimes enemy from school seems just like a young, impulsive girl would. The adults here actually play a part, though they are absent for much of the story. And every character has a role that must be filled.” —Courtney’s Reads
*
“SCRAP CITY will hold you like few stories really can. … D. S. Thornton writes a compelling story and knows how to draw in a reader. Her descriptive prose is enticing and gorgeous. Her characters are full of life and secrets of their own. If you love middle grade novels, middle grade fantasies, characters that come to life, and compelling situations with truly dastardly antagonists, Scrap City is for you. I promise the story will entice you and keep you glued to the pages..” —Kid Lit Reviews
*
“SCRAP CITY will charm and captivate any child who picks it up off the shelf, be them human or Scrapper.” —Kids Reads
*
“SCRAP CITY was such a cute and fun read! … It was so hard not to enjoy. … The world building was very clever. … The backstory about the Native Americans was very intriguing and well thought out. Well, really a lot of it was very thought out and rather clever. All of Arkie’s world was just so amazing to read about, it really makes you wish you could go there!” —Reading with Cupcakes
*
“The action is rollicking, constant and mild enough for young readers… This is a solid adventure with a provocative message about cultural and environmental preservation.” —School Library Journal
*
“The premise is delicious, and the underlying message warns against consumerism and consumption.” —Kirkus Reviews
*
“Fun and adventurous … a book that kids would really enjoy … and even though there are some heavier moments … it isn’t too heavy for most middle grade students. … [I will keep] a copy for my students to read!” —Living a Life in Books
*
Perhaps my favorite comes from Arianna (“12 yrs, 9 months”) of 5 Girls Book Reviews: “This book was magnificent and always had me on the edge of my seat! I felt like I was dealing with deaths, Scrappers, and a modern day villain. … My favorite character is Willy Videlback because he is super funny and reminds me of a grandpa who acts like he is loony, but really just enjoys everyone underestimating him. My favorite part is when they make the junkyard come to life and a lawnmower chases the villain’s henchman into a pit. I also like when Cici helps the Pinawa’s recover their new home by finding the inheritance papers for them. I recommend this book to anyone who loves emotional feelings rising up inside of you, silly adventures, and truly wonderful heroes. ” —DST
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