Book Review: The Watermelon King by Daniel Royse

The Watermelon King, which features two juxtaposed story lines, reminded me of the structure of Fried Green Tomatoes. The main story is an adventure of two brothers as they make their way through the small towns and sometimes frightening roads of Africa. The second read by the main character his grandfather's stories of becoming "The Watermelon King" and running a large scale fruit stand.

Both parts were equally enjoyable, and the read fairly quick.

While interesting, the African story failed to make me want to go on an African adventure, although this was probably not the author's goal. More than once I could picture myself there feeling trapped with no way home. There were many days or riding bumpy, hot vehicles through long stretches of nothing, only to end up in small towns with one hotel, a restaurant with only one offering, and a dingy bar for entertainment.

Ethan, the author's foil, was mostly an annoying. He spent his time whining about the food, accommodations, and about going to the beach. He eventually becomes inflicted with a fairly serious mosquito bite which causes them to cancel their plans.

The gems were the stories of the grandfather, which were scattered throughout the book. These included, starting his business with a watermelon scheme which led him to becoming the Watermelon King, buying and selling used cars for a profit, a great white shark roadside attraction (my favorite), playing tricks on his simply minded employees and dealing with the town mayor by dripping ice cream on his office carpet.

*** I was given a free copy to read for the Book of the month in the group: Book Club (Young Adult Edition) for Authors Looking directly for Readers 

https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...