The Key That Swallowed Joey Pigza: Joey Pigza Books

Even kids whose own experience is more orthodox will recognise that this conclusion counts as success for the Pigzas and a triumphant coming into his own for Joey, the boy whose unstoppable energy has become a force for good. Fans who've followed Joey's chronicles will regret the series' ending, but the inimitable Joey will live on indelibly in memory and in new generations reading. (BCCB)

* Readers of all ages are going to cheer Joey on as he heroically deals with one over-the-top situation after another. By the time this final book of the series - as elegantly and propulsively written as the others - draws to a close, you know that no matter what the future holds, Joey's inner strength and smart, sweet nature will prevail. (The Horn Book, STARRED REVIEW)

* Readers who have read the previous books and come to know and love Joey will appreciate the irony and emotional punch of his final triumph. Give this groundbreaking, heartbreaking title to readers mature and sensitive enough to understand the author's black humour and seriousness. (School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW)

* The fifth and (ostensibly) final book in the multi-award-winning Joey Pigza chronicle features all of the drama, havoc, and heart readers have come to expect, dread, and love . . . The conclusion to Gantos' beloved and much-lauded series is big news, and Joey's fans of all ages will want to grab their copies as soon as possible. (Booklist, STARRED REVIEW)

* Joey takes on his toughest set of challenges yet in this heart-rending, triumphant series finale . . . (Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW)

* Collectively, the Pigza series is a poignant examination of modern dysfunction, a window into how kids in tough family situations come to believe they are damaged and incapable of redemption. (Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW)

About Jack Gantos