This series is so sweet, I really enjoyed reading it. My student like to read it as well. I am sad that there won't be anymore.

This was my second Cody title and I love and adore these companion stories. Both of the books were perfection for me. There seems to be a shortage of newer Middle Grade stories, geared toward the younger ages of this reading group, that aren't a majority of silliness like Diary Of a Wimpy Kid, Captain Underpants, and Timmy Failure. The Cody books have a good mixture of funny, excitement, and kid life.

There are many different types of families and neighborhoods in these stories, and lots of stereotype busting elements. Of course there are kid sized problems to be faced each time, and although Cody and her friends might stumble a couple of times, they learn how to push through by listening to and watching parents, teachers, older siblings, and yes... even their friends.

The books would also make wonderful chapter (or two) a night read-alouds for the younger set. I highly recommend these titles.

Cody loves Gremlin, the monster figurine her brother, Wyatt, passed onto her a few years ago. When her best friend, Pearl, proposes a trade - Cody's Gremlin in exchange for Pearl's Arctic Fox - Cody goes along with it, but regrets it almost immediately. Though Cody is pleased that Pearl thinks of her as "trusty" enough to care for one of her prized possessions, Cody misses having Gremlin to confide in, especially when her brother's brand-new, hard-earned Cobra bicycle is stolen. Unable to stand it any longer, and afraid to tell Pearl how she feels, Cody steals Gremlin out of Pearl's backpack during a field trip and then allows Pearl to believe he has been lost. Before she can feel better, however, Cody will realize that she must be honest with Pearl, or she will be just as bad as the thief that took Wyatt's bike.

This book, like the others before it, demonstrates Springstubb's understanding of the significance of small events in the life of a child. Negotiating trades and bargains with friends is something most kids must learn how to do at some point during the early elementary years, and Cody's experience provides a great blueprint, both for how to handle the situation poorly, and how to navigate handling it properly.

The details of the story are also appealing, and they immerse the reader in Cody's world. These are just some of the little things that I really liked in this book:

The tempting gong on Cody's teacher's desk, and the fact that Cody has to try so hard not to touch it.
The fact that Cody's teacher mistakenly assumes the Cobra is an animal, not a bicycle.
Wyatt's teenager-esque dialogue that reveals his age and attitude without modeling disrespecful or inappropriate behavior.
The fact that Cody accidentally (and secretly) scratches Wyatt's bike, a clue which later helps him identify it.
Cody's concerns over dripping pizza sauce in Pearl's seemingly immaculate house.
There are also several wonderfully quotable lines in the book. I especially liked Cody's observation, "If you enjoy rules that make no sense at all, go on a field trip." and her understanding that [C]onscience must be deep-down. Like a backbone. Conscience must be a vertebrate."

Families looking for books with a clear sense of right and wrong and a believably flawed but overall good-hearted character need look no further than the Cody series. I say this every time I review one of her books, but Springstubb is the one of the best writers of new realistic fiction titles for kids, and I make it a point to read everything she publishes. You and your kids should, too.

Cody's brother Wyatt has a new obsession-- a bicycle. Specifically, a very spiffy bike that he saves up a large amount of money to purchase. Cody feels that this is taking up too much of his time, and misses hanging out with him. She has a new friend, Pearl, and has her first sleepover. Pearl suggests that they trade toys, and Cody reluctantly agrees to let Pearl have Gremlin, her favorite toy and confidant that her brother gave her. When Wyatt's bike is stolen, Cody wishes she had Gremlin back to talk to, and eventually "borrows" him back, letting Pearl think that he has been stolen. Cody also suspects that the Meens have stolen the bike, and at one point there is a big chase to get the bike back. Cody has to come clean to Pearl and hope that their friendship can be saved.
Strengths: I love Cody's busy but supportive family. Her mother is especially amusing, since she is the manager of the shoe department in a local store but doesn't cook or handle the home situation terribly well. Wyatt is a typical teen, and his relationship with Cody realistic. Cody's teacher is fun as well-- his shirt is tucked in and his hair is combed in the morning, but he's a mess by the end of the day. The fact that he is firm and has set rules, and Cody likes him anyway is a good example to set.
Weaknesses: Even though Cody's feelings toward Gremlin are completely accurate, this portion of the book does take the interest level to a lower grade.
What I really think: This is a great series for elementary school students that even does well with my reluctant middle school ones, since the books are short and have appealing illustrations.