The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger is imaginative and quirky as any middle-grade text should be. The fictional story revolves around Tommy and his friends from McQuarrie Middle School in their attempt to solve the conundrum involving an origami Yoda. Dwight, the weirdest kid in Tommy’s class, has created a fortune-telling, problem-solving, counseling Yoda made of paper which he wears on his finger. When Dwight, or Yoda, begins dishing out sound advice to students, Tommy begins a case file, in order to assess the validity of Yoda’s suggestions. Since Tommy is infatuated with Sara, he desperately needs to know if Yoda is the real deal, so he can take Yoda’s advice and ask Sara to dance during the school’s monthly Fun Night. Accordingly, Tommy’s case file is full of anecdotal records from students that have asked Yoda a question and the experiences they had after Yoda gave them the answer, along with commentary from his friend, Harvey, as the rebuttal. Throughout the book, Tommy wonders whether it is actually Yoda or Dwight that is imparting wisdom since Dwight seems to be dim-witted and extraordinarily strange. In the end, the advice that comes from Dwight (or Yoda) brings the group of friends together for an unforgettable experience at the Fun Night.

Since the book’s overall subject matter is innocent and playful, this book is suitable for all ages. The Strange Case of Origami Yoda is intended for middle-grade readers, but it is an enjoyable read for children and adults alike. One of the major strengths of this book is the comedic factor. The stories that are told by Tommy and his friends are engaging and funny, drawing in readers and provoking laughs. Because of the compilation of stories and characters, the book allows teachers to implement activities that focus on character development and characteristics. Students can also take away lessons about friendship and individuality. Dwight’s character may seem strange and attention-seeking, but provides the lesson of staying true to oneself. The overwhelming theme of loyalty and doing the right thing is also portrayed through stories of regret and apologies in Tommy’s case file.

I laughed out loud several times while reading Tommy’s case file. The stories were cute and just weird enough to be believable. It reminded me of when I was in middle school and filled with preteen angst, but not quite ready to let go of childlike imagination. Seemingly, Tom Angleberger is still very much in tune with his imagination and discusses inspiration for books, as well as why he only writes for children in the interview below.

If readers are anxious to know what happens to Tommy, Dwight, and the rest of the crew, Tom Angleberger continues the adventures in a sequel titled, Darth Paper Strikes Back: An Origami Yoda Book.

Angleberger, T. (2015). The Strange Case of Origami Yoda. New York City, United States of America: Harry N. Abrams.

Angleberger, T. (2015). Darth Paper Strikes Back: An Origami Yoda Book. New York City, United States of America: Harry N. Abrams.