Max Explains Everything: Grocery Store Expert did not really “grab me” with its story or illustrations. However, the twist at the end is a bit amusing. If you the adult reader pay attention you probably could see it coming. The story is simple: family runs out of things. They need milk, cereal, toilet paper. Mom take Max to the store to buy these (and other items). Max, like many kids, is not thrilled with the prospect, but Max, having done this many times before, knows tips on how to make it less of a chore and more fun. He also knows the things mom should be buying and tries very hard to slip them into the cart and during check-out. He also has little tricks to do while in the store: like grab dog food to remind your mom you need to get a dog. Map out your path (and not the one mom wants) and not to mention one must get the right cereal and cookies.
| Stacy McAnulty does have a way with words. I hear that possibly six or seven-year-old boy speaking to us. The actions are typical kid. The emotions real. And Deborah Hocking does a delightful job of creating art to complement that. You see a boy in a store, you see him at home eating a candy bar with him mom and the scenes where you learn about the toilet paper needs are amusing.
Overall, kids and even some adults, will really get a kick out of Max. He is mischievous without being naughty and there is a loveable tone to the story.
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