As always, the wordplay is part of the fun in this series (“Fizz-Ed”) and so are the comic-style graphics. Readers will enjoy the karate details, both the action and the calming meditation, as well as the story’s climax, when Stink beats the bully.

The text will challenge, without taxing, beginning readers and provide struggling readers with the chance to be successful. Young readers will get a kick out of Stink and his adventures, whether they read them independently or hear the stories read aloud. Recommended.

Astrophysics facts combine with everyday second-grade school experiences in this lively chapter book in the Stink series. Shocked to hear the scientific fact that Pluto has been declared too small to be a planet, Stink stands up to both grown-up scientists and other kids when he starts a campaign to let Pluto back into the solar system. He even makes bumper stickers that read “Honk if you love Pluto.” The funny words (“double freaky-deaky”) and silly scenarios, illustrated in Reynolds’ wry, informative black-and-white drawings, make for a fast read about the triumph of the little guy and the wonders of the universe.

McDonald uses simple, expressive language to keep the story rolling. Stink is a fun, easy-to-love character with an authentic child voice. The action takes off from the very first chapter and is well sustained throughout. Fans of the earlier books, as well as the “Judy Moody” series, will not be disappointed.