Andrew Clements
Meeting Andrew Clements was a distinct pleasure and a highlight of my 39 years of involvement with children's literature. The best part of the experience was watching him in action with the school children who were present to "meet the author of Frindel!" The students were well prepared and they could talk about his writing as only true fans can. He easily led them to in-depth discussions and craftily guided their thinking in different directions like the master teacher that he obviously is... the classroom's loss was definitely a gain for the publishing world. Mr. Clements is very much aware of his audience and remains connected to them in a very sensitive way. His books have won many awards, which, of course, is very gratifying to him; but of greater importance to him is the end reader and the ensuing word-of-mouth spread of the influence of his books on students around the world. Our world is definitely a better place with the influence of authors such as Andrew Clements. Read the following article to learn more about this gifted writer and be sure to visit his web site: www.frindle.com/.
Contributor: Sheilah Egan
On a November day in 1990, Andrew Clements took a big dictionary to an elementary school presentation in Middletown, Rhode Island. He told the children that the book held a thousand years of thoughts and ideas. One youngster piped up, "Where did the words come from?"
"Every word is made up by people who needed to explain something," explained Clements. He held up a pencil. "If everyone started calling this a frindle, the people who make dictionaries would notice that and put it in the dictionary."
Six years later, he turned that "teaching moment" into a story that was nominated for more than 35 children's choice awards and won many of them. Frindle now has its own website, complete with a photo of John F. Kennedy Elementary School in Middletown, Rhode Island (www.frindle.com). On the website, Andrew explains that Frindle's main character, Nick , "is a combination of many kids I have known, including myself. Mrs. Granger (the teacher) is also constructed from bits of many teachers I have known and some I have worked with, again, including myself." The book has been translated into Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. It will also be available soon in Basque, Portuguese, and German. In Italian, it's called Drilla, because that word "rolls spillingly off the tongue and sounds more Italian." But Andrew says he wishes it were called Frindle in every language.
Andrew Clements held just about every publishing job possible before actually writing a book. He started by revising translations of German and Japanese children's stories. Then he was assigned to write stories based on foreign illustrations, but he called that "reverse engineering - the wrong way to do a picture book." He had realized that picture books are a "distinct literary form, like haiku or sonnets. In a picture book, there are twelve page turns. By the third page turn, 25% of the story is over. Plot, character, time, setting - everything is abbreviated." Frindle was initially rejected as a picture book idea so he started turning sentences into chapters and pretty soon, it was a chapter book.
Clements says he likes school stories because school makes up such a big part of everyone's life. Frindle gets at the heart of learning and "captures a nice portion of what it means to be a student or a teacher or learn something new." The Jacket is another school story, about the importance of a particular jacket to a middle school boy who concludes it was stolen because he sees a black boy wearing it. The book raises issues of racism and prejudice and was originally written in serial form for the Boston Globe. "My generation grew up ignorant of race," says Clements. "We didn't realize there was this whole other world. My own racial consciousness was awakened in college, but at some point, every white person wakes up to the difference in your experience.." As a child, Andrew watched his older brother in a situation like that retold in The Jacket. His brother has no recollection of the incident, but it stayed with Andrew vividly enough to become the centerpiece of this book. "I was thinking like a writer," he says, "storing up significant moments" Noting how frequently authors turn their own memories into stories, Andrew describes fiction writing as the "artistic reprocessing of experience."
Before Clements started writing books, he was a teacher: 4th grade, 8th grade and high school. He read aloud at every level, reading Hemingway to middle schoolers to "push the limits of their sense of story and literature." He has three grown children, all musically inclined, so he wants to write another school story about music. First, though, comes The Report Card, due out in spring 2004. With a theme of grades and testing, it focuses on a 5th grader's view of the Connecticut Mastery Test. "My publisher thinks it will stir things up!" says Andrew with a laugh.
Contributor: Karen Leggett
Reviews
Because Your Daddy Loves You
Andrew Clements
Illustrated by R.W. Alley
A loving dad does all the right things to make a young girl feel secure and cared for. He does not just tell you to go back to sleep when you have a bad dream; he sits beside you until you fall asleep. On a trip to the beach, every time something goes wrong he does not scold or blame. He finds your lost shoe; he brings back your carelessly tossed ball; he wipes up the mess from your melting ice cream cone. Back home, he patiently goes through the whole bed-time routine, ending with the vital "I love you." In this tribute to an ideal dad, no mother appears, making this particularly reassuring to children of single-parent dads, if they can be even half this caring. Alley's ink, watercolor, and acrylic pictures are especially effective in supplying contextual details while always keeping the focus on the two major characters. The gestures and facial expressions tell a positive story of cheerful mutual affection. There is a deceptive simplicity to the artist's drawings in vignettes and full-page scenes that can make the brief text at times seem even redundant. 2005, Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin Company, $16.00. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-618-00361-4
Big Al
Andrew Clements
Illustrations by Yoshi
This touching story features the adventures of Big Al, a friendly fish whose size and scary features frighten all the other fish in the sea. After numerous attempts at trying to make friends, he sadly swims through the ocean. During his swim he discovers a group of small fish that have become trapped in fishermen's nets. Fearing for their lives, Al uses his strength and courage to save them. After his display of bravery, he makes a sea full of friends. 1989, Simon and Schuster/Scholastic, Ages 4 to 7, $16.00, $5.99, $4.95 and $3.95. Reviewer: Debra Briatico
ISBN: 0-88708-075-8
ISBN: 0-88708-154-1
ISBN: 0-689-81722-3
ISBN: 0-590-44455-7
Big Al and Shrimpy
Andrew Clements
Illustrations by Yoshi
Big Al, the puffer fish (or possibly the porcupine fish), first seen in Clements' earlier Big Al, is back with a tiny fish friend named Shrimpy in tow. Shrimpy may be small, but he's clever, which is good thing since it enables him to save his bigger friend when he becomes trapped in the crack of a rock and tumbles into the ocean depths. With the aid of a lantern fish, Shrimpy organizes Big Al's rescue from the murky bottom and becomes the guest of honor at the fishy celebration that follows. The rather predictable plot will probably please the youngest readers or listeners, but the best part of this picture book is the glowing illustrations. Japanese artist Yoshi uses paint and batik on silk to achieve the luminous yellows and oranges of the fish against the ever-changing underwater blues of the sea. Many-hued fish dart in and out of the waving corals and deep water plants as Big Al pursues his good-natured antics and Shrimpy proves that you're never too small to have big ideas. 2002, Simon and Schuster, Ages 3 to 7, $16.95. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft
ISBN: 0-689-84247-3
Bright Christmas: An Angel Remembers
Andrew Clements
Illustrated by Kate Kiesler
One of the Heavenly Hosts recalls the birth of the Christ child. In lyrical passages, the angel describes the dark, waiting earth, awestruck shepherds and radiant mother. "Earth now had a heavenly light of its own," declares the angel. Best known for his humorous middle-grade novels, author Andrew Clements adopts a gentle, wonder-filled tone for this tale. Kate Kiesler's luminous oil paintings convey the angel's perspective. Especially touching is the picture of the surprised shepherds gazing straight up at the narrating angel--and also the young reader. Perfect for reading aloud to the whole family. 1996, Clarion, $5.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-618-05153-8
The Christmas Kitten
Andrew Clements
Illustrated by Simon Galkin
Raggedy Ann and the other dollies decide to sneak out and go sledding one winter day. While they are out, they find a kitten and bring him home with them. Raggedy must think of a way to keep the kitten--she and the other dollies wrap him up as a present from Santa! Their owner, Marcella, is delighted with the present, so all ends well. This story doesn't have the charm of the original Raggedy Ann stories, and lacks the suspense the original tales always inspired as the dolls tried to evade detection during their forays away from the nursery. The illustrations stay fairly true to the original style. 2000, Little Simon/Simon & Schuster, $3.50. Ages 3 to 7. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-689-83243-5
Christmas Won't Wait
Andrew Clements
Arthur, the elf, is behind schedule this year. He works hard to get all the presents ready for Santa, and then realizes that he hadn't readied the sleigh. Not to worry, Santa and Arthur take off in Arthur's roly-ski-downer-fly-upper and manage to make all their deliveries. This is an amusing, pleasant, holiday tale with soft-toned watercolor illustrations. 1996 (orig. 1990), North-South, Ages 3 to 6, $14.95 and $6.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 1-55858610-5
Circus Family Dog
Andrew Clementse
Illustrations by Sue Truesdell
Old Grumps, the circus dog, has only one trick, playing dead. He cannot jump through the burning hoop, but the children love him-until Red the Clown brings a new dog, Sparks, into the ring. Sparks can do many tricks and soon replaces Grumps as the star of the show. With silent determination, Grumps spends his days training to jump through the burning hoop. On the last night of the circus, Grumps surprises the clowns and the audience with one spectacular performance. He never performs the trick again, but he is loved "because he is part of the circus family." With sparse text and colorful humorous pen and ink and watercolor illustrations, Clements and Truesdell present a delightful story for young children who enjoy the excitement of a circus. Readers can almost feel the mounting tension as each night Grumps attempts to jump through the burning hoop. With similarities to Susan Meddaugh's books, this one is sure to please younger audiences. 2000, Clarion Books, Ages 4 to 7, $15.00. Reviewer: Jenny B. (J.B.) Petty
ISBN: 0-395-78648-7
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Smithsonian Magazine's Notable Books for Children, 2000 ; Smithsonian; United States
Slippers at Home
Andrew Clements
Illustrated by Janie Bynum
Slippers is the name of an affectionate young dog that has a home, his doghouse, in a home. Four people live in the big home. These include the Mommy, Daddy, little Laura, and baby Edward. Of course, Slippers is one of the family and he loves all of them as much as they love him. Each character in the story is well described, as is an average day in the life of this happy puppy. The illustrations are as adorable as the dog himself. There is not much of a plot, though, and the setting and characters are very traditional. Still, early readers will like the large text, easy words, and friendly illustrations in this colorful picture book. Anyone who has or who would like to have a pet will identify with the warmth and companionship Slippers shares with his loving family. 2004, Dutton Children's Books, Ages 4 to 8, $12.99. Reviewer: Denise Daley
ISBN: 0-525-47138-3
Dolores and the Big Fire
Andrew Clements
Illustrated by Ellen Beier
It is hard to imagine someone living alone, but Kyle was an older fellow who lived in an older house all by himself. One day a kitten (Dolores) became a part of his household. They were friends but Dolores wasn't one who liked to be petted or cuddled, though she was obviously very fond of Kyle. One night she jumped on his head and scratched him. What was wrong? The house was filled with smoke. It was a narrow escape for both and a truly heartwarming ending. This is a true story, part of the "Pets to the Rescue" sub-series within the "Ready to Read" series, Level 1. Illustrations are featured on every page and show Dolores and Kyle as ordinary folks, but kids will come away knowing that Dolores was an extraordinary cat.
BIBLIO: 2002, Simon & Schuster, Ages 5 to 7, $15.00.
REVIEWER: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-689-82916-7
Double Trouble In Walla Wallas
Andrew Clements
Illustrated by Salvatore Murdocca
At school, Lulu finds herself unable to stop speaking in "lippity-loppity, jibber-jabber." Taken to the principal's office by her teacher, they too find themselves stuck in the same "double trouble." The nurse realizing that Lulu has opened up a "wibble-wobble word warp" suggests an outrageous cure which fills six pages of tongue twisting fun for young readers. The fast paced rhythm of this story is set through the abundant use of hyphenated expressions from beginning to end. The full page cartoon-like illustrations are brilliant and multi-colored. Every inch of the page is filled with images larger than life. The text varies continually in size, color and font. Both these elements leave no room for the eye to rest by and create a frenetic atmosphere, and unfortunately overwhelm the story itself. While children will enjoy hearing this read aloud, the design and illustrations detract from the visual enjoyment. 1997, The Millbrook Press, Ages 2 to 8, $14.95. Reviewer: Tina Hudak
ISBN: 0-7613-0306-5
ISBN: 0-7613-0275-1
Frindle
Andrew Clements
Pictures by Brian Selznick
Fifth grader Nicholas Allen finds out that dictionaries were actually written by people. He realizes that someone, somewhere, must have decided what certain words meant and wrote them down. But what would have happened if a different word had been chosen to represent, for instance, the instrument we write with? You know, the one with the ink in it, that you push the button and the point comes out? What if it was called a frindle? Nicholas and his friends experiment with frindle until the word has a life of its own. This story is terrific, and Nicholas' teacher, Mrs. Granger, is a dead ringer for my fifth grade teacher! One really unusual aspect of the book is that we actually find out what Nicholas is like when he's a junior in college! 1996, Simon and Schuster, Ages 9 up, $15.00. Reviewer: Judy Silverman
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Books That Comfort Us, 2002; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Books to Read Aloud to Children of All Ages, 2003; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Capitol Choices, 1996; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Fanfare Honor List, 1996; Horn Book; United States
Kirkus Book Review Stars, 1996; United States
Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002; California Department of Education; California
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Arkansas Diamond Primary Book Award/Charlie May Simon Children's Book Award Winner 1999 Arkansas
Beehive Award Winner 2000 Grades 3-6 Utah
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award Winner 1999 Gr. 4-6 Maryland
Charlie May Simon Children's Book Award Winner 1998-1999 Arkansas
Children's Crown Award Winner 1998-1999 Grades 3-6 United States
Christopher Awards Winner 1997 Ages 10-12 United States
Delaware Diamonds Winner 1999 Grades 3-4 Delaware
Flicker Tale Children's Book Award Winner 2001 Juvenile Fiction North Dakota
Georgia Children's Book Award Winner 1999 Grades 4-8 Georgia
Great Lakes' Great Books Award Honor Book 2001 Grades 4-5 United States
Great Stone Face Award Winner 1998 New Hampshire
Massachusetts Children's Book Award Winner 1999 Massachusetts
Maud Hart Lovelace Book Award Winner 1999 Division I Minnesota
Nevada Young Readers' Award Winner 1999 Young Readers' Nevada
North Carolina Children's Book Award Winner 1999 Junior Book North Carolina
Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Award Winner 2000 Gr. 3-5 Pennsylvania
Prairie Pasque Award Winner 1999 South Dakota
Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award Winner 1999 Illinois
Rhode Island Children's Book Award Winner 1998 Rhode Island
The Sasquatch Reading Award Winner 1999 Washington
William Allen White Children's Book Award Winner 1999 Kansas
Young Hoosier Book Award Winner 1999 Gr. 4-6 Indiana
Young Reader's Choice Award Winner 1999 Youth Pacific Northwest
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
California Young Reader Medal, 2000; Nominee; Intermediate; California
Charlie May Simon Children's Book Award Reading List, 1998-1999; Nominee; Arkansas
Children's Crown Award, 1998-1999; Nominee; Grades 3--6; United States
Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children's Book Award, 1998; Nominee; Vermont
Georgia Children's Literature Awards, 1999; Nominee; Grades 4-8; Georgia
Great Stone Face Award, 1997-1998; Nominee; New Hampshire
Indian Paintbrush Book Award, 1999; Nominee; Wyoming
Iowa Children's Choice Award, 1999-2000; Nominee; Iowa
Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 1998; Nominee; Kentucky
Maine Student Book Award, 1997-1998; Nominee; Maine
Maud Hart Lovelace Book Award, 1998-1999; Nominee; Minnesota
Michigan Reader's Choice Award, 2001; Nominee; Grades 4--5; Michigan
Nevada Young Readers' Award, 1999; Nominee; Young Reader; Nevada
Nutmeg Children's Book Award, 2000; Nominee; Connecticut
Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Award, 1999-2000; Nominee; Pennsylvania
Prairie Pasque Award, 1999; Nominee; South Dakota
Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award, 1999; Nominee; Illinois
Texas Bluebonnet Award, 1998-1999; Nominee; N/A; Texas
Utah Children's Book Awards, 2000; Nominee; Children's Fiction; Utah
William Allen White Children's Book Award, 1998-1999; Nominee; Kansas
ISBN: 0-689-80669-8
The Jacket
Andrew Clements
Illustrated by McDavid Henderson
When sixth-grader Philip Moreli spots his brother's jacket on a fifth-grader he doesn't know, sparks fly and the boys wind up in the principal's office. The jacket, it turns out, was a gift, not stolen property, and Philip must consider his assumptions about how African-American Daniel ended up with the jacket. The aftermath of the explosive encounter prompts some honest soul searching and a new awareness of race and place on Philip's part. Both boys learn that honesty and a second chance to look at life from another's point of view make understanding it a little easier. Once again, Andrew Clements demonstrates a deft portrayal of kids in schools and a willingness to tackle important themes. Philip and Daniel are likeable characters, and the plot and dialogue are as honest as the problems are real. This well-written story about the growth of one boy's social conscience will find a welcome place on the shelves of thoughtful readers and teachers. 2002, Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers, $12.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Anne Field (Children's Literature)
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2003 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
ISBN: 0-689-82595-1
Jake Drake, Bully Buster
Andrew Clements
Poor Jake Drake. Most of his young life (he's in the fourth grade now), he has been a target for bullies. His size, lack of older siblings, demeanor and nerdy appearance made him prized bully bait. The year that proves to be the most challenging for Jake is the second grade, when superbully Link Baxter enrolls in Jake's school. From the very beginning, the relationship of Jake and Link is volatile. Jake tries to use his wits and commonsense to deal with the pranks and name calling from this bully who seems intent on making every moment a dismal one. It is only when they are paired to do a Thanksgiving Day project that Jake comes to realize the strengths and weaknesses of Link. Given an opportunity when he could humiliate Link, Jake chooses another course of action, which earns Link's respect (but not his friendship). The manner in which Jake overcomes being the constant target of a bully is realistic and engaging. This fast paced, humorous chapter book is insightful as well as instructive about how to survive bullying. Readers are sure to enjoy and rejoice when Jake becomes a certified bully buster. A "Ready for Chapters" book. 2001, Ages 7 to 10, Aladdin Paperbacks, $3.99. Reviewer: Jeanette Lambert
ISBN: 0-689-83880-8
ISBN: 0-689-01760-X
Jake Drake: Class Clown
Andrew Clements
This story concerns a fourth grader who thinks he has a "job" as a class clown. He refers to his teachers as "Boss." This year he has a student teacher, and he overhears a conversation between his Boss and the student teacher. He begins to think that he is really cute and funny. The student teacher bothers him because she never smiles! He decides to make her smile, but little does he know that it will lead to her running out of the room crying! When approached by his Boss, he really feels bad and changes his ways. This would be a good book for students to read to get some understanding into the world of being a "Boss." Fiction. 2002, Simon & Schuster, 72p, $15.00. Grades 3-5. Reviewer: Virginia Gleaton (Heart of Texas Reviews (Vol. 15, No. 1))
ISBN: 0-689-83921-9
Jake Drake Know-it-all
Andrew Clements
Third-grader Jake is excited about possibly winning a new computer in the school's first-ever science fair. The trouble is that two classmates are bound to win because they are so competitive. Still, Jake works out a magnet project, doesn't tell the nosy two, avoids the "help" of his K-I-A/D-I-A (Know-it all, Done-it-all) Dad, and finally enlists his good friend to help. He doesn't win first prize, but neither do the over-eager beavers. And Jake learns something about getting excited about science, how to organize and present a project, and he discovers it's really fun to mess around with magnets. Clements brings to this "Ready-for-Chapter" book, the second in the "Jake Drake" series, his usual knack for sounding like a kid narrator and his eye for school culture. Avendano's ink wash and pen illustrations are bland but adequate, and dialog, a few lists and charts, believable characters and situations, and some worthwhile themes make this a good read with an invitingly easy look. 2001, Aladdin, Ages 7 to 10, $15.00 and $3.99. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-689-83918-9
ISBN: 0-689-83881-6
Jake Drake, Teacher's Pet
Andrew Clements
Jake Drake is having four horrible days in the third grade. First he helped his teacher on the computer and she labeled him her "special" computer helper. Then his art teacher called him "sweet" in front of the whole class just because he washed some brushes. In P.E. he was first out in every game of dodge ball, but his coach still called him a real trooper. Finally, at lunch when he cleaned up for a friend, the principal made him cafeteria patrol because she thought he was cleaning up after everyone else. All the kids in school think he is a teacher's pet and begin to make fun of him. It's not fair that the teachers give him special treatment. In this book, Jake Drake struggles to prove that he is not a teacher's pet but just a regular kid. Andrew Clements picked a subject that all kids can relate to and treated it with both realism and humor. Jake shows readers that a kid can be good without being a teacher's pet. This is the third in the "Jake Drake" series. 2001, Aladdin Paperbacks/Simon & Schuster, Ages 7 to 10, $3.99. Reviewer: Heather Robertson
ISBN: 0-689-83882-4
The Janitor's Boy
Andrew Clements
Pictures by Brian Selznick
Some kids' fathers are lawyers or doctors. Jack Rankin's dad is the janitor at his school. Embarrassed by his dad, Jack manages to keep his secret until the day in fifth grade when his dad acknowledges him and says hello. Angered and humiliated, Jack plots an act of revenge. He smears a desk with a huge, disgusting wad of Bubblicious gum, only to get caught in the act. The principal's punishment is for Jack to spend three weeks as the janitor's assistant after school. In quiet classrooms at the end of the day, scraping gum from library chairs, and deep in a tunnel that runs under the school, Jack has time to reflect. He discovers there is much about his father he does not know, nor has he taken the time to care. This fine coming-of-age story has a very likeable kid hero and a quiet, unassuming parent who have much to teach each other. Credible emotions and dialogue move the story to a warm and satisfying conclusion. 2000, Simon and Schuster, Ages 9 to 12, $15.00. Reviewer: Beverley Fahey
ISBN: 0-689-81818-1
The Landry News
Andrew Clements
Illustrated by Sal Murdocca
Young readers will welcome this brand new school story by the author of best-selling novel, Frindle. Cara Landry is a budding journalist trapped in Mr. Larson's dull, disorganized fifth grade classroom. One afternoon, Cara posts a scathing editorial about her burned-out teacher on the bulletin board and everything changes. Her editorial re-ignites Mr. Larson the Teacher! Instead of chiding Cara, he challenges her to create a real newspaper with her classmates. Soon, The Landry News gets more attention than anyone expected, as the school principal uses one of its news stories to try to get Mr. Larson fired. The controversy gives Mr. Larson the raw material for some of the finest teaching of his career, and Cara learns the importance of tempering a newspaper's truth with mercy. But will their lessons cost Mr. Larson his job? Here's middle grade fiction that will have readers thinking about weighty issues like media censorship and responsible journalism while enjoying a funny, heart-warming story. A winner! 1999, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, Ages 8 to 12, $15.00. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree
ISBN: 0-689-81817-3
The Last Holiday Concert
Andrew Clements
Sixth-grader Hart Evans is not crazy about chorus, where the tense Mr. Meinert has them singing boring songs. To amuse himself, Hart zings a couple rubber bands at his teacher, landing him in the principal's office. A smooth-talker, he escapes with a reasonably light punishment, further angering his teacher. Hart and the other students do not know that all art and music teaching positions are being eliminated after the holidays for budgetary reasons; and when they push the teacher the next day, he suddenly turns concert planning and preparation over to them. Hart, a popular and usually well-behaved kid, is chosen to lead the class, which is easier said then done. The next three weeks is an exercise in leadership, democracy, and cooperation--even Mr. Meinert helps out in the end. Clements has written another believable school story with characters sympathetically and realistically portrayed. The concert provides an emotional climax to this well-written and quickly paced story. Do not limit this to your holiday shelves; it will be popular year 'round. 2004, Simon & Schuster, $15.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Peg Glisson (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-689-84516-2
Lunch Money
Andrew Clements
Andrew Clements has a NEW book--Lunch Money. It's about a kid, who has the drive and foresight for making money. Right way you gotta love this kid, eh? He invents a series of comic books that he sells for a quarter (every kid has a quarter in their pocket right?) and is about to become very very rich when his across-the-street female nemesis gets into the act, and you know right away, how this is going to end up but you wonder what will happen along the way, and it's all very pleasantly satisfying, like mashed potatoes and meat loaf, a good solid comfortable story that every entrepreneur ought to read. Most people are not born with good business sense, and some are born totally lacking the gene for Lemonade Stand 101, but regardless, Andrew Clements finds a place in this endearing book for us all. 2005, Simon and Schuster, Ages 8 to 12, $15.95. Reviewer: Gwynne Spencer
ISBN: 0-689-86683-6
Naptime For Slippers
Andrew Clements
Illustrated by Janie Bynum
Slippers is a curious, energetic puppy who is having a difficult time settling down to nap. While the father is at work, the mother is gardening, the sister is at school, and the baby brother is sleeping, Slippers gets into one thing after another to entertain himself. This story is a clear window into puppy mentality, and is a great way to teach children empathy when it comes to pets. Slippers, like many puppies, does things that seem like bad behavior to people, but he is actually only acting on canine instincts. So as he laps up milk from the baby's sippy cup, in his mind he is only relieving his thirst. His natural curiosity for scents keeps him busy; he tracks down objects that smell like his family and affectionately hides them under his pillow. But every time Slippers manages to get just one eye shut, something interesting grabs his attention. Young readers are sure to relate to this playful, busy puppy. 2005, Dutton Children's Books, $12.99. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Cherie Ilg Haas (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-525-47287-8
Raggedy Ann & Andy: The Christmas Kitten
Andrew Clementse
Illustrated by Simon Galkin
Raggedy Ann and the other dollies decide to sneak out and go sledding one winter day. While they are out, they find a kitten and bring him home with them. Raggedy must think of a way to keep the kitten-she and the other dollies wrap him up as a present from Santa! Their owner, Marcella, is delighted with the present, so all ends well. This story doesn't have the charm of the original Raggedy Ann stories, and lacks the suspense the original tales always inspired as the dolls tried to evade detection during their forays away from the nursery. The illustrations stay fairly true to the original style. 2000, Little Simon/Simon & Schuster, Ages 3 to 7, $3.50. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-689-83243-5
The Report Card
Andrew Clements
Nora Rowley has a secret not even her family knows about: she's a genius. She has purposely maintained average grades and played down her intelligence because she doesn't want people to treat her differently. Now that she's in the fifth grade where they are given letter grades--grades that matter--Nora does not like the competition she observes between her classmates, and the way grades can make people feel and act better or worse than others. When her best friend, Stephen, starts to believe that his average grades mean he is dumb, Nora develops a plan to teach Stephen, her classmates, and everyone that you can not measure intelligence by testing and grades alone. As the first step of her plan, Nora brings home a horrible report card that triggers a series of events that do not unfold the way Nora had anticipated, but do ultimately get people thinking and talking about grades. Along the way, Nora learns a lot about herself and that she is not the only one who sees imperfections in the testing and grading system. This is a thought-provoking book that will surely get readers thinking right along with the characters about what grades and testing really measure. The conclusion of this story was disappointing in that it ended too early. How Nora changes is evident, but what will change--if anything--for this class, their competitiveness, and the testing and grading system at large remains to be seen. 2004, Simon & Schuster, $15.95. Ages 8 to 12.
Reviewer: Jennifer Chambliss (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, March 8, 2004; Cahners; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Society of School Librarians International Book Awards Honor Book 2004 Language Arts-Grades K-6 Novels United States
ISBN: 0-689-84515-4
Ringo Saves the Day!
Andrew Clements
Kids love to read animal stories, especially those based upon true stories. Andrew Clements, author of acclaimed middle grade novels Frindle and The Janitor's Boy, gives younger kids an easy-to-read story about a loveable, courageous cat who becomes a local hero. Ringo is an orange-striped, homeless kitten until he is rescued by Carol and Ray, and becomes a part of their family. When the kitten wants to go outside, he bangs on the back door like a drummer, so Carol thinks he should be named for the famous drummer, Ringo Starr. Ringo's life in his new home is happy until the day Ringo notices a funny smell in the air and sees that his owners feel sick. That's when Ringo's sharp nose and digging skills help him to save the day. Beier's bright watercolors capture feline expressions and poses perfectly. The text for this title in the Ready-to-Read/Level 1 "Pets to the Rescue" series is set in large, easy-to-read type, perfect for beginners. Kids will come back to this book for repeated readings. 2001, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, Ages 5 to 7, $15.00. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree
ISBN: 0-689-82915-9
The School Story
Andrew Clements
Illustrated by Brian Selznick
Natalie is writing a book-a good book. The problem is, how does a twelve-year-old girl get a book publisher to take her seriously? Her friend Zoe comes to the rescue by becoming her imaginative and surprisingly competent literary agent. Careful and credible plotting makes this unlikely adventure almost believable. Aspiring young writers will be particularly interested, but should understand that today's demanding market isn't likely to find a twelve-year-old to be professional enough to publish. Nevertheless, readers will be dying to find out if Natalie succeeds, and will gain a lot of accurate and interesting information about slush piles and the publishing industry. Minus the credibility problem, this is an engaging story, though the beginning chapters lack some of the immediate vitality of Clements' earlier works. Black-and-white drawings lend additional interest to the already strong characters. 2001, Simon & Schuster, Ages 8 to 12, $16.00. Reviewer: Betty Hicks
ISBN: 0-689-82594-3
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Book Sense 76 Picks, Fall 2001 ; Book Sense 76; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, May 2001 ; Cahners; United States
State Reading Lists:
Colorado Children's Book Award List, 2003 ; Colorado
Maine Student Book Award, 2002-2003 ; ME
Texas Bluebonnet Award, 2003 ; Texas
Utah Children's Book Awards, 2003 ; Utah
The Secret Father's Day Present
Andrew Clements
Illustrations by Varda Livney
Father's Day is just around the corner, so Sarah and James are making a special present for their dad. Dad is puzzled, since he can't seem to locate tools and items that he needs to complete his Saturday chores. In this Lift the Flap book, "Sarah and James find just what they are looking for, but Dad did not." the children are on one side of the flap, locating what they are looking for, and Dad is on the other, looking puzzled. On Father's Day morning, Dad has a very large present to open. Sarah and James have wrapped themselves up in a big box with tubs and garden tools, all hung with tags telling Dad he gets a "free dog bath," "free gardening," etc. The drawings are bright and filled with family details. This lift the flap book will appeal to preschoolers. On several of the opening pages, the flaps on the left side of the spread were not as easy to manipulate as those on the right page. 2000, Little Simon/Simon&Schuster, Ages 3 to 5, $5.99. Reviewer: Kit Bloom
ISBN: 0-689-83359-8
Tara and Tiree, Fearless Friends: A True Story
Andrew Clements
Illustrated by Ellen Beier
Jim loved dogs and not only did he have pets, but he trained dogs. They were his friends and part of his family. This particular true story is set in Canada. Jim ventured out on a cold day for a walk on the frozen lake. Unfortunately, the ice broke and he fell into the freezing water. His dogs tried to help him, but Tiree ended up joining him in the water. Poor Tara just wasn't strong enough to pull him out. Tiree managed to get out of the water and together Tara and Tiree helped Jim pull himself free of the freezing water. It is an amazing story not only of the dogs' devotion to Jim, but their intelligence in orchestration his rescue. Jim is obviously proud and devoted to his brave and wonderful dogs. The pencil and watercolor illustrations depict Jim as an older man, but the dogs look young and full of energy. This is part of the "Ready to Read" series, a level 2 book for kids reading independently. It is a book that would also be appropriate for kids not reading on grade level or adults just learning to read English. 2003, Simon & Schuster, $15.00. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Garden State Children's Book Award, 2005; Nominee; Easy Reader; New Jersey
ISBN: 0-689-82917-5
Temple Cat
Andrew Clements
Illustrations by Kate Kiesler
In the ancient city of Neba there lived a cat who was lord of the temple. He was waited on hand and foot by many servants, but all he wanted was to be a regular cat. One night, he escaped from the temple and made the long journey to the seaside. There, he began to enjoy himself eating fish, wandering about, and especially playing and being loved by children. At last he found a true home. Lovely paintings of ancient times enhance this well written tale. 1996, Clarion Books, Ages 6 to 8, $14.95. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger
ISBN: 0-395-69842-1
Things Not Seen
Andrew Clements
What if you woke up one morning and found you were invisible? This is the dilemma Bobby Phillips faces--being invisible changes his whole life. If he leaves the house, he either has to cover himself completely, or wear nothing at all. His parents are having a hard time explaining his extended absence from school. He has to keep his condition a secret, and this causes even more problems. When Bobby meets Alicia at the library, he believes he's found a friend who will accept him as he is. Alicia is blind, so his invisibility doesn't matter to her--once she believes he is telling her the truth. Their growing friendship and the mystery concerning Bobby's condition make for an absorbing, imaginative tale. 2002, Philomel Books, $15.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Joanne Draper
ISBN: 0-399-23626-0
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2003 ; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
Things That Go Eek on Halloween
Andrew Clements
Illustrations by George Ulrich
It's Halloween and the monsters Ickis, Krumm, and Oblina realize that their usual tactics for scaring children won't work tonight. We join them at the Monster Academy, where their teacher Gromble is discussing alternative ways to frighten the trick-or-treaters. Parents: reading about these monsters may well help young listeners become liberated from their own nighttime fears! Based on the TV series Aaahh!!! Real Monsters, as seen on Nickelodeon. 1997, Nickelodeon/Little Simon, Ages 4 to 7, $5.99. Reviewer: Karen Saxe
ISBN: 0-689-81675-8
A Week in the Woods
Andrew Clements
Eleven-year-old Mark is not at all happy about leaving his home very near New York City for an 1800's farmhouse in New Hampshire which his very rich parents have purchased and renovated. He will live there with their housekeeper and handyman, with his parents coming for short stays as their business allows. Mark knows he will be attending the local elementary school for only a few months (he has already been accepted at a prestigious boarding school for next year) and initially makes no overtures toward his new classmates, spending most of his time in school looking out the window. This infuriates Mr. Maxwell, his science teacher, who concludes Mark is a typical obnoxious rich kid and slacker. Although Mark changes his behavior, making friends and participating in class, he and Mr. Maxwell continue to butt heads. Mr. Maxwell is the organizer of the fifth grade's annual Week in the Woods; Mark has become enamored with the outdoors since exploring his family's newest property and is very much looking forward to the week. When Mark is discovered holding a Swiss Army type tool that has a knife (actually belonging to another boy), Mr. Maxwell expels him from the camp and sends him to the parking lot to be driven home. An angry Mark takes off into the woods, pursued by Mr. Maxwell who has suddenly realized the knife wasn't Mark's. Suspense builds before the two meet up and successfully settle their differences. This novel is a mixed bag. Mark's initial anger and callous attitude will strike a chord with readers, as will his "love affair" with the outdoors and the survival element as he spends the night lost in the woods. But his realization that he has been acting "like a stuck-up jerk" and his immediate turn-around seem awfully mature for a fifth grader, as does his sense of duty to his classmates while hiding in the woods. There are long passages where Mark broods to himself, slowing down the pace of the story. There are similarly long passages about Mr. Maxwell's thought process. Certainly the title and the cover will attract readers, but its unevenness may cause some to put it down. 2002, Simon & Schuster, Ages 9 to 13, $16.95. Reviewer: Peg Glisson
ISBN: 0-689-82596-X
Where the Moon Lives
Ivan Gantschev
Translated by Andrew Clements
As the freshly hatched baby duckling discovers the world, he wonders about everything he encounters. Father Duck does his best to answer all of the duckling's questions until the subject of the moon arises. Father Duck isn't familiar with any of the facts regarding the moon so he sends the duckling to the wise old swan. The swan invites the young duckling to his island to discover the secret of the moon. Just as the Father shares his knowledge with his son, the duckling learns that the moon shares its light with the rest of the earth, one part at a time. This beautiful and telling book supplies the reader with wonderful illustrations and carefully placed text. The cutouts and mirrored additions are exquisite complements to this story. 1998, North-South Books, Ages 8 up, $18.95. Reviewer: Scott S. Floyd
ISBN: 1-55858-921-X
Who Owns the Cow?
Andrew Clements
Illustrated by Joan Landis
Of course the farmer who bought her owns the cow, but others who come in contact with the cow "own" her too-the milkman, an artist, a little girl listening to the cowbells, a little boy who will forever remember the cow perched on a misty hillside. And that little boy grew up to be a writer, who has shared the cow with us as well. The charming paintings perfectly complement this evocative tale. 1995, Clarion, Ages 4 to 8, $14.95. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-395-70145-7
Workshop
Andrew Clements
Illustrations by David Wisniewski
Harry Potter and his friends are sure to want a copy of this book. Each tool, one per page is described in crisp, word-perfect text, while gorgeous cut paper designs show the apprentice and workman using the tool. "The chisel is a chipper, a nibbler, a digger/Chisel is a little-by-little shaper of wood and metal, /brick and stone. /Chisel is patient," is an example of the simple eloquence of the text. The finished product is a carousel complete with white horse. The illustrations are magical. What a gift! 1999, Clarion, Ages 4 to 8, $16.00. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman
Welcome to the workshop where a master craftsmen are using a variety of tools to create a carousel. The ruler is used to mark off exact measurements, a saw cuts through the wood and a chisel is used to refine and shape the figure of the horse. Shears cut though tough leather for the reins and stirrup straps while a knife is used to finely trim. All of the tools found in a toolbox and workshop are boldly depicted in Wisniewski's cut paper illustrations. The final spread of the workers and the carousel splashes brightly over two pages and the final page reveals the young helper astride a wonderful horse from the carousel. 1999, Clarion, Ages 3 to 5, $16.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-395-85579-9
Updated 06/21/05
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