Dustin Grubbs: One Man Show

by John J. Bonk

Book Overview

No Synopsis Available.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0316156361
• ISBN13: 9780316156363
• Release Date: September 2005
• Publisher: Little, Brown Young Readers
• Length: 243 Pages
• Weight: 0.52 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.6" x 8.1"
• Age Range: 8 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 3 to 7

Customer Reviews

Courtesy of Teens Read Too

If you are looking for a fun read that will make you laugh, then DUSTIN GRUBBS: ONE-MAN SHOW by John J. Bonk is an act you shouldn't miss. Dustin is a sixth grade thespian (actor) who has comedy and a thirst for performing in his blood. But don't tell his mom, since she says his dad's dream of being on stage is what caused the divorce nearly three years ago. One night he left for a gig, and Dustin hasn't heard from him since. Dustin is not only the director of the school play, but has also landed the lead role. Performance day arrives and everything that can go wrong does, including major damage to the school's baby grand piano. The principal is holding Dustin and his favorite teacher, Miss Honeywell, responsible for finding a way to raise funds to repair the damage. When Jeremy Jason Wilder, a famous teen actor, moves to his school, casting him in a small part seems to be the perfect solution to their financial dilemma. They could charge for the play and Dustin would have his moment in the spotlight performing to a full house. But Jeremy has his own secret that could stop the show. His arrival sets events in motion that could even cost Dustin his best friend, Wally. John J. Bonk's amazing wit drives this book, from naming characters Pepper and LMNOP, to referring to ice water as "Adam's Ale, extra hale." Mr. Bonk creates the most amazing scenarios. This is a feel-good book that will have you laughing even after the last page is turned. Reviewed by: Cana Rensberger

I love Dustin!

What a readable, laugh-out-loudable, can't-put-downable book! I love this story! Author John Bonk has a way with words and sense of humor like no author children's author in recent history. I'm recommending this book to all my young friends (and some older ones, too!) I can't wait to meet Dustin again and hear what he's up to.

Great read for kids and adults

As a drama teacher I am always looking for books to inspire my students. This book made me laugh out loud. I had great fun reading it and will definitely encourage my students to give it a read.

Who says life's problems can't be funny?

Dustin Grubbs has plenty of problems. His dad ran off to be a stand-up comic and his mom isn't handling it well. And Dustin? Well, he wants to be a star and he doesn't think Mom's going to handle that so well. But a kid's gotta do whatever it takes to be a star -- even if he has to be sneaky about it. Even if he hurts a friend. Or maybe, not. I found this book a delight. In Dustin Grubbs: One Man Show, author John Bonk shows the same kind of skilled comedic touch of Gordan Korman's No More Dead Dogs. I heartily recommend snagging this book just for Granny's birthday part alone. But don't try to read this one over lunch -- it's snort-milk-from-your-nose funny.

I love this book!

Dustin Grubbs is a sixth grader with a passion--and that passion is acting. When he lands the lead role in the school play, he is determined to put on the best possible show around. But when someone famous moves into town and tries to steal Dustin's limelight, it's every actor for himself in this hilarious read from John J. Bonk. In Bonk's literary debut, he has created an "everyman" in the form of Dustin Grubbs. Dustin is self determined, resourceful, and creative. But Dustin is not without his faults. He snubs his best friend in order to rub shoulders with a famous star and in doing so, he alienates his friend and finds out that being famous doesn't mean you're necessarily nice. All of Bonk's characters are well rounded and quirky. Dustin's family reminded me a lot of my own. The protective mother, the wacky grandmother, the divorced parents...readers of all ages will see some aspect of themselves in this wonderfully enchanting book. This is a book that relies on inner spirit to tell a story. Armchair Interviews says: In an age of Harry Potter and Eragon it's nice to read a simple and compelling story like this.