Punchlines by Oliver Phommavanh

Puffin Books, 2012. ISBN 9780143306511.
(Age: 12+) Fifteen year old Johnny Khamka seriously wants to be a comedian. Friends and family are perfect fodder for his one liners. He carries an exercise book to write in when inspiration strikes. The opportunity to represent his school at the Funny Bones competition is a real chance to make his name. Maybe he will be the next Anh Do? Johnny decides to get some real stand up experience by performing at the Jokey Pokey but obstacles begin popping up everywhere.
This is an easy, light hearted read with a distinctly humorous flavour. When he is not hanging with his mates or performing comedy, Johnny's attraction to a cute girl gives the story some romantic tension.  The author is a teacher and a comedian, so he knows his audience well.
This is an entertaining read for boys and girls and perhaps the reluctant reader could be enticed to give this one a go.
Tina Cain