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Has anyone got this book yet? Just curious.

To Mflick1 and others: I know that the publisher has received requests and is fulfilling them. Simply Read Books is a small publisher (wonderful because they can focus all their attention on creating just-right books) and I believe they've been doing some traveling and thus haven't shipped books yet. But be patient: I hope you'll find CHANTEL'S QUEST is worth the wait. Thanks.

I just received this book yesterday and began reading it. I showed it to my 11 year old and I was not able to take it back. She was immediately swept away along with the main character, Chantel, and supporting characters. It is good to see the immediate connection between reader and text. She is my less eager reader and for that I give it a 5 in the picnic basket scale!

I just received mine today and can I say that the personal touch they did in writing in our books and sending bookmarks was very classy and appreciated! Cannot wait to read!

I started this book this morning and finished it this afternoon.
The character Chantel is very well developed as were the others. I was on the edge of my seat at the end of each chapter. The author did an excellent job with worldbuilding. I felt like I was in that very world. I felt sorry for the characters who were touched by the darkness and doubted tehmselves and anger at the Evil one. I love when a book can make me feel such strong emotions. I loved the the short chapters. My students were amazed that it had 34 chapters. I have a list of them lined up to read it. I am going to have a hard time waiting for the next three. I definately rate this book a 5!!!

From Russia With Lunch
By Bruce Hale

This book surprised me. I read it, my first Chet Gecko mystery, without having high expectations for it. A series about a gecko with a cutesy title aimed at third graders did not seem to hold much promise as a good read. I was greatly mistaken.
From Russia With Love is filled with wonderful language. As a teacher in a school where the majority of students are second language learners, I think this book is a fabulous way to introduce children to the wonders of the English language. To really explain this, I must include excerpts from the book.
First, the names of the characters are very clever: Natalie Attired, Tanya Lightov, and Pete Moss. While the students reading the book may not “get it,” the adults using it as a read aloud will certainly be entertained. Next, I have selected some parts of the book which highlight the author’s clever use of idiom and figurative language.
“The last dribbles of lunch period were leaking out, like the sauce from a Sloppy Junebug sandwich.”
“Mrs. Bagoong folder her thick arms. ‘I don’t like the crisp of her bacon.’ ‘You think she might be a few eggs short of an omelet?’ I asked.”
“The badger turned uglier than a plate of broccoli at breakfast.”
And my personal favorite: “Blue doesn’t even come close to describing my mood that afternoon. Kids sent to bed without supper are blue. I was gloom-founded, hurtin’ for certain, down in the Dumpster, majorly mope-ified.”
Taking the time to read this book with second language learners (and with native English speakers) opens up a world of idioms and common (and some not-so-common) expressions for such students. What a wonderful way to get students to want to learn the idioms—because it will help them understand the story.
And the story itself is fun. A good third grade reader will be able to understand the story, but the language will be best understood by a more mature reader. Don’t be fooled by its cover—this book will also be greatly enjoyed by fourth, fifth and even sixth graders as well.

Pamela Kramer
Reading Teacher
Highwood, Illinois

I just read From Russia with Lunch and I enjoyed in thoroughly. The website enhanced the whole experience. This is the first in the Gecko Mysteries for me but I am sure to read more. As a teacher, it's a challenge to find engaging mysteries but this is a winner. The figurative language and humor is sure to be a hit and keep the reader engaged.
It lends itself nicely as a tool for exploring metaphors, similies, idioms, etc.
As an independent read, I would say this book would appeal more to lower middle or upper elementary students that have a lot of schema for figurative language.
I would rate this book a 4 out of 5

Laura Backman
Reading Specialist
Melville School
http://lemontheduck.com

Not expecting too much from a Chet Gecko book, I was pleasantly surprised with the wit of the story line. It is a laugh-out-loud story I know students will enjoy checking out again and again! Older students (middle school) should be able to catch the meanings of the play on words while younger students(elementary) will be able to enjoy the mystery of this cute story. I rate this book a 4.5 because I WOULD rummage through the picnic basket to read it!

Denair Charter Academy
Denair, CA

I just finished this book this morning and absolutely love it. I have a soft spot for Lincoln, anyway, and started reading this book to my daughters a few days ago. Last night we couldn't find it and my oldest daughter's comment was, "I am crazy for that book!" told me she was enjoying it, too.
Told by Tad and Willie Lincoln the boys are able to convey the wonderful relationship they had with their father, who just happened to be the President of the United States. His enthusiasm for his children was unique for that time period, but Wells has done her research well.
The book spans many years, ending right after the end of the Civil War. Sadly, I know what occurs next and can imagine Tad's devastation over the death of his beloved father (Willie has already passed away).
I will finish reading this book to my girls tonight and am anxious for their feedback.

I found my copy in my school mailbox this afternoon as I was preparing to leave school. I could not wait to get home and read it. Once I started I could put it down. I loved the story told through the voice of Tad and Willie. It showed a personal side that most of us have never seen before.
It showed the concern Lincoln had for all people, the great father that he was and how they handled the death of Willie in their own way.
To me one of the most important things I found was that Lincoln made sure his cabinet knew where hsi family stood in the order of things.
I can't wait to take this back to school tomorrow and share it with my students.
I give this book a 5.

I first noticed the beautiful pictures. Their warm hues and soft look invited me in. As I started the brief book, I was amazed at how quickly I finished it.
From all I know, the conversations seemed very true and their heartfelt tone made me feel as if I was listening in on private conversations.
It was nice to see a great public man in his private setting.
Toward the end, I felt sorry for Tad as I knew his father was not long for this world. However, I finished the book with hope and a greater appreciation for the father.
I give it a 5.

Rosemary Wells has created a wonderful, insightful book about Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln and His Boys gives the reader a personal look at Lincoln and his family. Lincoln's love for his sons, his grief over Willie's death, his struggles with the war as well as his wife's depression, are all portrayed in this insightful story. Wells used primary documents to validate her writing, and her author's note adds credibility to her writing. This book will be a great addition to any lesson about Lincoln. I recommend this book to teachers to be used as a read aloud. I can't wait to share this book with my students. I give this book a 5. Louise Stearns, Southern Illinois University

This is a very touching book written in a manner that will interest students in intermediate grades. The boys stories made Lincoln seem very approachable. Athough I have always thought of him as kind and compassionate, this story made him more so. His love for his family shows through in this book.
This book would be great to teach a lesson about voice or point of view while incorporating history. There are moments of sadness but the poignancy is lacking making it good for instructional purposes.
A sweet story, recommended without reservation (4).

This was a fantastic book to read and I couldn't put it down. I loved learning about Lincoln from the perspective of his children. It really made me see him in a different light and I learned some things that I never knew about him and I think students will feel the same way when they read this. I think this book would really appeal to boys because it is from a boy's point of view. I could see them making comparison's about boys and their fathers then and now. I would definitely give this book a 5!

I just received this book yesterday and read it in one night. I loved it. It shows a great emotional side into a great president. The pictures are so detailed and warm. It is narrated by Lincoln's two middle sons, Willie and Tad. The book covers from 1858-1865. It shows how Lincoln loved his family above all. The great pain that he and Mary went through in their lives is heart-breaking. It is so inspiring to read how Lincoln loved this country and how he desired the Union to be kept together.
I highly recommend this book with a 5 star. Happy 200th Abe!

I really loved this new perspective of Lincoln. The story of Lincoln as told through the eyes of his sons is very heartwarming and personal. This book is useful for not only an enjoyable read of Lincoln, but also as a research book well-suited to the middle grades.
I strongly recommend this book.
Christine B.
6th grade
Chicago, IL

I spent the last 45 minutes reading this fabulous book. I give it a rating of 5/5, as it contains the perfect blend of historical facts and storytelling through the eyes of Lincoln's two boys. I felt a full range of emotions from sadness, to joy, to empathy, and was often carried to thoughts of my own son and how I would like him to perceive me in as great a light as Lincoln's son's saw him. Lincoln and His Boys is a great quick read for young adults and adults, as well as a great chapter book for grades 6-8. It would also be a fabulous read-aloud for grades 3-5. It allows for a lot of discussion about presidents as real historical figures and allows students to relate to an office to which they feel so far removed.

Just in time for his 200th birthday, “Lincoln and His Boys” offers much more than a cursory account of the beloved president’s life. The story is biographical and Tad and Willie are the storytellers. Their fictionalized dialogue based on historic accounts gives Wells great credibility as both researcher and writer. The dialogue is engaging, yet challenging the reader to discover new words that have long passed out of popular usage. The text is covered with facts that are skillfully woven to give a rather complete story of Mr. Lincoln’s perspective of the Civil War.
Teachers of American History from upper elementary through high school will find uses for the book. Although intended for a younger audience a middle or high school teacher may use it in a center to give more perspective to the importance of Lincoln and his family. Generally speaking, good resources that probe the relationships of the Lincoln family are missing from most school curriculums. Even scarcer are books that tie the family influences to the administration itself. Clearly, “Lincoln and His Boys” will invite children to explore the other factors that influence decision making. Add it with confidence to your classroom or library.

4 out of 5

John Parker
Media Coordinator
Andrews High School
50 HS Drive
Andrews, NC 28901
www.slamguy.wordpress.com

"Lincoln and His Boys" is a terrific book but is an especially great hook for boys who are reluctant readers.
Rosemary Wells seems to effortlessly weave historical information throughout this heartwarming story.
This story is perfect for comparing similarities and differences and making connections.
Told from the perspective of his two middle sons, it provides the reader with insight not only to a great leader, but a wonderful, accessible human being and father.
Laura Backman
Reading Specialist
Melville School
Author of "Lemon the Duck"
http://lemontheduck.com

Lincoln and His Boys is a very endearing story about Abraham Lincoln in both the role of United States President and loving parent. Classified as fiction, this story is filled with fact after caring fact about how President Lincoln dealt with the pressures of running a country while dealing with the heartaches of a parent. Written in language suitable for elementary to middle school students, I found it both enjoyable and educational. I rate the book a 4 because I would rummage through the picnic basket to read it. It was difficult for me to put this book down and I can't wait to tell our teachers about this mini-treasure of a book!

Julia Pitau
Media & Intervention Technician
Denair Charter Academy
Denair, CA

Today is Lincoln's birthday! I received the book in the mail yesterday, read it last night and couldn't put it down. As I started to read it to the students, they were on the edge of their seats. In fact, they wanted to give up part of their recess time so I could continue to read it.

From the eye catching cover to the author's note, this book was composed in a style that captivated the reader, but also showed the passion that the author possessed for social studies and Abe Lincoln.

Whether you are a child or an adult reading the book, you feel like you are walking in the steps of each of the characters. You feel Mary Todd Lincoln's sadness when her son dies, laugh at their antics at the dinner table, and are in wonder about the "going ons" in the "President's House".

If you are looking for a book that will act as a hook for your children to fall in love with history, this is the one to buy!

This book captured me first with the beautiful illustrations. I think many reluctant readers will pick it up for the same reason. Once the book is in any readers hands it will not be set down until he/she is finished reading it. It is an easy middle grade read, and would be great as a primary read aloud. Getting to know President Lincoln through his boys made his already bigger than life persona more personal. I can hear them talking at the table after dragging their father home, and his disapproving cabinet. The authors note is as touching as the book. I would include this in any classroom library to prompt discussion about our President, families, and the Civil War.
A Picnic Basket 5.

Karen Kondrick
Literacy Coach
Ripley, NY

It was certainly interesting to read a book about Lincoln written from the point of view of his sons. The childlike tone adds a certain charm to historical events.

I do wish there had been more explanation in spots. Most children wouldn't be familiar with the term "cleft palate" and while it explains that Willie dies of a fever, it doesn't talk about Typhoid. I also wonder about the author's choice to essentially skip the election and go right to the nomination.

Lincoln and His Boys does a good job of establishing Lincoln as an exceptionally moral person with a sense of decency toward the conquered, as well as the conquerers. It also establishes his humanity.

Where Wells excels is in the art of the small vignette, moments which reveal powerful insights about the characters, such as when Tad gives away his muffin to a hungry girl.

This book, while a little young for middle school, seems ideal for about third to fifth grade. It would make a great classroom book and a good resource book for students hoping to learn more about Lincoln.

Picnic Basket Score: 4

The windows into history open to readers of historical fiction. Chains leads the reader boldly into Isabel's world. This is the joy and magnetism of good historical fiction - it excites the imagination and curiosity! Quotes at the chapter beginning's introduce authenticity and primary sources. Halse Anderson's strong characterizations, action and dialogue combined with a beautiful presentation - cover, fonts, paper - make this book a winner and one I will recommend highly to my middle and high school readers. The details enrich the aliveness of history -- Ruth's doll, Isabel's brainpan, Madam's eyebrows...huzzah!

Is Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson a story of the American Revolution, a story of slavery's injustice, or a story of a young girl’s struggle to keep the remaining trace of her family together as she lingers at adulthood’s door?

As America seeks autonomy from monarchy’s rule, an orphaned slave girl, Isabel, is promised freedom upon her mistress’s death. But after the death, Isabel, and her younger sister Ruth, are sold into a vile and conflicting situation. Who does she trust? Who will help her find the lawyer that can substantiate her claim? Isabel has no allegiance to either the British or the Revolutionaries and consorting with either poses dangerous consequences. She seeks only what all men seek: freedom.

With Chains, Anderson gives us full and diverse characters. Though some are mean, or even evil, she manages to introduce counter-characters to demonstrate the complete picture of human emotions. It’s easy to fall in love with Isabel and by the story’s end, we are clamoring for more of her authentically proud and strong voice. The plot moves at a good pace for both holding student interest as well as allowing enough detail for cultural/historical investigation. My only worry is the depth of the political conflict’s motivations are glossed over (and I understand why this is necessary in a novel), so educators might want to provide historical background knowledge to support the story before, during and after each section (which is always a sound educational practice anyway). The historical references are amazingly abundant and perfectly researched, and Anderson includes a fantastic appendix, easing the quest for supplemental materials.

In the end, what Chains does best is juxtapose the irony of a nation struggling for freedom with that of one young lady waging her personal war for those same rights. So to answer my leading question: Chains is a novel about the American Revolution, it’s a story about slavery’s injustice and a story of one girl’s march into adulthood; but Chains is really the story of Everyman’s rise from tyranny.

Recommended in history classrooms as well as literature classrooms in grades 6-10. Would suit both units on slavery, the American Revolution as well as literature discussions on personal freedoms and inalienable rights.

Also reviewed on Let The Wild Rumpus Start! and Library Thing

P.S. Forgot to give my rating and credentials: Rating 5/5 and I'm a Reading Specialist in Florida.

Told from the point of view of a young slave girl named Isabel, this novel takes readers back to a time and place when owning others was socially acceptable. By setting Isabel's struggles against the backdrop of New York City in 1776, Anderson draws a parallel between Isabel's struggle for freedom and the ideals of the American Revolution. Told in first-person narrative by Isabel, the story really places the reader in Revolutionary America, but the language is very accessible for students. Isabel's primary goal is freedom for herself and her younger sister, Ruth. She first chooses to act as a spy for the Revolutionaries, believing they will help her to freedom. Then, hearing that the British have offered freedom to any slaves that will help them, she waffles. As a history buff, I absolutely could not put this book down, and the ending made me want to scream!

I would recommend it to students who like historical fiction, or are interested in the Revolutionary War. It's probably a fourth-grade-and-up read; there's nothing inappropriate for younger students, but they wouldn't understand some of the historical references, and there is a scene where Isabel is beaten and branded.

For educators, Chains would be a great introduction to social studies topics like the Revolutionary War, or slavery, for students up through high school. I can also see it as a great text to study character development and change; Isabel goes through some major changes as a result of her experiences.

Rating: 5 Strongly Recommend

Rebecca Dickenson,
Librarian
Eagleton Elementary
Maryville, TN.

Chains is fabulous. Isabel is a rare character, a slave from the North. Her story brings so much life to the time period, so much depth to the sketch of history students at this age receive - how many of your students do you think realize there were so many slaves in NYC, or even that the city was occupied by the British during the war? Because of the popularity of Speak, I already have readers lining up for this book, which may not have been the case with another author. I'm sure this book will land in the hands of students who don't usually read historical fiction, and I hope they surprise themselves by how much they enjoy it. With the promise of a sequel to come, this might be just the gateway book I'm looking for!

Rating: 5 Strongly Recommend

Pamela Burke
Librarian, Marlboro School
Marlboro, VT

SurRural Librarian
http://lib.surruralist.net/

Anderson is amazing; she writes historical fiction as though she is writing about her own life. It comes across as effortless, which, of course, must mean that she spent countless hours researching every little fact. I can not imagine Isabel existing at any other point in history; that is not to say that her character is contrived, it is more that she was created by her place in time and space.

Anderson’s characters are intriguing and well developed. Even the characters that the reader is meant to hate are given depth. I was easily lost in Isabel’s world & in Anderson’s careful prose. Chains is the best piece of historical fiction that I have read in a good, long while.

Yes, take the day off and pack a picnic just to read this book: 5

Find more reviews of Chains on the ACPL Mock Newbery Blog.

Heather
Children’s Librarian

It didn't take me many pages to be caught up in Isabel and Ruth's story. Chains gives us a glimpse into a part of history that I can't recall many, if any, books addressing--the Revolutionary War from a slave girl's perspective. I learned a great deal about the occupation of New York by the British and the limited rights of African Americans. I agonized with Isabel as she made courageous choices and dealt with choices that were made for her.

This would be a great book to use in conjunction with a Revolutionary War unit. I'm considering reading it aloud to my 4th graders as we've just started talking about the Revolutionary War.

5/5 rating from me. I can't wait for the sequel!

Kristin G.
4th grade teacher
Eldora, Iowa

A great novel that just recently excited my imagination was "Bedlam South," by David Donaldson & Mark Grish. It is a great Civil War historical fiction. I was able to pre-read it before its October 7th release date! You can imagine how excited I was!

Thanks for suggesting "Chains," I have been looking for a great book for my son to read who is enthralled with all of the wars of history- he happens to be in 4th grade so this should be excellent match for what I have been looking for.

Oops spelled the author's name wrong. Wouldn't want to offend anyone. The names of the authors are David Donaldson and Mark Grisham, not Grish as I had previously written.

The year is 1776. Isabel is a slave and her mistress, Miss Mary Finch, has just died. Although Miss Mary had written in her will that upon her death Isabel and her sister Ruth would be free, the document is nowhere to be found. So Isabel and Ruth are sold to the Locktons in New York.

The Locktons are Loyalists, supporting King George as the colonies teeter on the brink of the Revolutionary War. When Isabel arrives, she is approached by a young slave named Curzon who tells her that if she spies on Mr. Lockton and the meetings he has in his home, the rebel forces will ensure that she and her sister get safe passage back home to Rhode Island.

Isabel is in a unique position to spy on her master. She's as good as invisible to the gentlemen as she stands there waiting to serve them. And she'll do anything to procure freedom for herself and her sister. But it's not quite as easy as Isabel had hoped it would be. She'll come to realize that she needs to find her own path and seize her own destiny if she's ever to break these chains.

A unique book told from a first-person point of view, Chains really pulls the reader into the story. Of course I knew about slavery before reading this book, but Chains really brings the horrors of slavery to life and, perhaps for the first time, I feel like I really got it. Add to this the fact that most historical novels about slavery are set in or around the Civil War. The fact of the matter is that there were slaves in the American colonies. Lots of them. And the revolutionaries fought a war for freedom, but not freedom for all people.

The storyline pulled me in at first and the writing drew me in even further. Anderson knows how to paint a picture of scenes and events so that you see them unfolding in front of your eyes. Take this passage from after Isabel's been approached by Curzon and is deciding whether to take information to him:

If I opened the gate, I would be a criminal. Slaves were not allowed out after sunset without a pass from a master. Anyone who caught me could take me to jail. If I opened the gate, a judge could order me flogged. If I opened the gate, there was no telling what punishment Madam would demand.

If I opened the gate, I might die of fright.

(pg 64)

I was completely pulled in by the story and the characters and I didn't want to put this book down. When I got to the end and found a to-be-continued, I was both dismayed and delighted. Dismayed because I want to know what happens next. I want to know right now. And delighted because Yay! There's going to be another book!!

Chains definitely gets 5/5 stars from me. It's one of the best books I've read all year! My review's also posted at my blog: Abby (the) Librarian.

Abby Johnson, librarian
Barrington Area Library
Barrington, IL

This book comes highly recommended - I give it 5 stars and honestly, if I could I would give it a whole lot more. It is THAT good!

You can read my review by going to Review of Chains.

thanks for privilege of reading such a wonderful book.

Freedom is snatched away from 13-year-old Isabel and her 5-year-old sister Ruth before they have a chance to experience it – after their gentle owner Miss Finch dies, having filled out paperwork with a lawyer to set the girls free, her nephew simply sells them off to the Locktons, a Loyalist couple who live in New York City. As it is 1776, this puts Isabel right in the middle of the beginning of the Revolutionary War.

Madam Lockton, a nasty piece of work, mistreats Isobel and gives her endless work, while she makes the sweet and pliable Ruth a sort of pet. Unfortunately, Ruth suffers from occasional “spells,” and they so unnerve Madam that she sells her, devastating Isabel.

The chaos and fervor swirling through New York City eventually pull Isabel from her dark despair. Although she had served as a spy for the Patriots after they promised her freedom, she becomes disenchanted with them when it becomes clear they only want freedom for white people; Isabel even briefly helps the Royalist cause when she hears that they offer freedom to slaves who escape and join the army. However, it seems that if a slave escapes from a Loyalist household, that’s a whole different matter.

When the only person in New York whom she might call a friend, a slave and Patriot named Curzon, is captured and held under terrible conditions by the British, Isabel shakes off her torpor and fear and smuggles in food. Once again, she is drawn reluctantly into the Patriot cause, carrying messages from prison to captured officers and back.
When Madam Lockton finds out, she promises to sell her immediately, and so Isabel escapes the household, ending part 1 of this saga. Will Isabel escape to freedom? How will she find Ruth? We’ll have to wait for part 2 to find out.

Anderson captures the milieu of 18th century New York City with a completeness, immediacy, and (I am guessing, though I am no expert) accuracy that set the reader right down at street level. It isn’t so much the sensory descriptions that set the tone as the certainty that this is how it must have been for a slave like Isabel. Anderson achieves this through Isabel’s voice, which has a truly authentic ring to it without sounding either stilted or too modern. A masterful use of period turns of phrase and a touch of dialect (not much, though – Isabel is a reader who was brought up by a loving mother and an educated mistress) give Isabel a narrative voice that conveys a convincing picture of her times.

Being a slave, Isabel’s world is quite circumscribed. She can’t describe what she hasn’t seen, and so the reader gets to know the few places and routes that she – the Lockton’s house, the market, the route to the water pump, the prison. Her knowledge of and opinions on the political situation are gained by the conversations she hears around her and by the ways she and Ruth are affected, which gives all events, whether small or historic, a very personal immediacy. For the reader, learning about life in New York City during the Revolution could not be any more enthralling or effortless than this. Well-written, impeccably researched, exciting, and heart-clenching, this is a fabulous read and a definite contender for the Newbery.

Eva Mitnick
Senior Children's Librarian
Los Angeles Public Library

Judy is her own irrepressible self, discovering what fun college and, yes, even math can be. Her college math tutor shows Judy how to change her "attitude" to "Glad-i-tude!" As in all of the hilarious Judy Moody books, this one contains puns, humor, good spirits, and a joyous look at life of a third-grade world. The story speeds along, with nary a dull moment. The interplay between Judy and her "peeps" (friends) are realistic, and yet poignant. The playing of the game of "Life" brings to the fore that Judy has determination, spirit, and intelligence. The characterizations are all so real and true. Of course, Peter H. Reynolds' illustrations are right on spot with Judy, and with all the characters. Any second or third-grader who has ever had a problem with a substitute teacher (or math) will appreciate Judy and the "attitude tent." Once again, McDonald has a winner with Judy Moody Goes to College."
-- Kay Bowes, Youth Services Librarian, Brandywine Hundred Library, Wilmington, DE

The Judy Moody Series is core summer reading for the Easy Juvenile readers at my library. JM Goes to College is the first one I've read and I know now what brings the readers back for more. McDonald's little stories are perfect -- supplying the early chapter book reader with easy access to humor, problem-solving and general good feelings. The illustrations add to the charm.

Judy Moody would Not have gone to college if Mr. Todd her teacher had Not gone to Bologna, Italy and broken his foot. The substitute teacher, Mrs. Grossman did Not impress Judy who was Not paying attention to word problems.

Judy wound up in the Attitude Tent and was sent home with a note for her parents recommending a math tutor. Judy Moody developed a bad math-i-tude until she met Chloe, college tutor; they hit it off big time!

When Judy Moody goes to college, she gets an attitude. Her peeps in third grade say she’s “too college” and won’t even eat lunch with her in the cafeteria.

If you loved the word play of Amelia Bedelia, you will love sharing Judy Moody’s wicked good Not Webster New World College Dictionary Edition. This librarian definitely feels old skool = old fashioned; out-of date!
-- Lana Voss, Manager – Children’s Dept., Tulsa City-County Library System, Tulsa, OK

As a former substitute teacher who always started each new math class with "there's math in everything including your shoe" I was pleased to see the hints at math activities incorporated into "Judy Moody Goes to College." As a librarian, I was aware of Judy Moody books, but had never read one. I'm glad to have finally met her. I was impressed with McDonald's portrayal of third grade (and all its angst / relationships / etc), the great word play, the kid brother, and the caring parents.

Definitely a book to have along on a picnic, unless, of course, you'd rather look for math in nature!

--Becky, rural library Co-Director

I am raving to every kid I see about how good this book is. Judy gets a little distracted at school and gets sent to a tutor for math help. Judy is elated to learn that her tutor is a college student; thus, Judy Moody Goes to College. And is college ever a wonderful place! Judy learns a whole new vocabulary, gets to do all the really cool college things (like eating at a salad bar---not just for teachers), and even acquires a little helpful math knowledge.
---Debbie Nance, Librarian, Stevenson Primary, Alvin, Texas

If you have a student who loved reading about Junie B. Jones, Judy Moody is a great next step. Judy is a sparkling character, with imagination and a stubborn streak that will appeal to middle grade readers. Many elementary students have often wondered what goes on in the mysterious world of college, and now they can travel to college along with Judy, who discovers that having a tutor isn't quite as bad as she thought. However, can she act like her college friends and still be accepted by her elementary school classmates? Don't be surprised if your students start using some new slang after reading this book. Hopefully, they'll tell you you're crucial!
--Kristen McAloon, third grade teacher, Andover, MN

Judy Moody does it again. Her attitude and perfect third-grade persona shine through in her ninth incarnation: Judy Moody Goes to College by Megan McDonald.

Judy’s teacher is attending one of those things where teachers go to learn more teaching stuff and Judy has a substitute teacher. The substitute thinks Judy has a math deficiency so Judy’s parents get her a tutor. Judy’s tutor is a college student, Chloe, who exudes coolness. Soon, Judy’s not only cool with math, but also cool with all her third grade peeps.

It is no wonder that the Judy Moody series is a hit. Judy is this generation’s Ramona, great company of which to be compared. Teachers will find many opportunities to discuss classroom & family dynamics, facing obstacles and attitude in this title. The title is also great for independent readers who like humor and/or realistic fiction.

Picnic Basket Rating: 4
Cheryl Tasses, Teacher & Reading Specialist
(also posted on: Let The Wild Rumpus Start)

Judy Moody Goes to College is the eighth installment in Megan McDonald's series about this entertaining character. This time Judy needs help with her math and spends some time at college with her tutor. This seriously helps Judy's baditude (bad attitude) as she is in awe of her rare tutor, Chloe, and all things college. McDonald's ability to use wordplay in her novels will allow older, and even adult readers to find humor in this book. I have been reading this book to my oldest daughters who are seven and almost five. While I feel that the five year old may not get the humor in this book, she enjoys hearing about Judy's time at college. My older daughter is enjoying Judy a great deal, and after just two nights we are almost one hundred pages into this book. McDonald's work is soon to be a new favorite in our house and fans of this series won't be disappointed!
Rating: 5 Stars
Tina Ristau
Elementary Media Specialist
Irving Elementary
Waterloo, Iowa

Judy Moody is a funny kid with an attitude. But not a nasty, bad-grammar-peppered attitude, just a little edge. A little spunk, a funny way with words and some rad fashion sense.

I love the character of Judy's college tutor Chloe and the portrayal of college as seen through Judy's eyes in particular.

This is a great series and I highly recommend them for young readers. They're funny, fast-paced, but never condescending. The illustrations are fabulous too.


---Pamela Burke, Librarian, Marlboro School, Marlboro VT

True confession of a school librarian: I have never read a Judy Moody book. But what a delight for a summer read. Judy Moody Goes to College hit the spot for something light, quick, airy and fun. I know students will grab it off the shelf so have ordered an extra copy. Also updated her brother, Stink's collection. The fast pace of dialogue, humor, family relationships and school adventures will make it an easy sell. I can't wait to book talk it with teachers, as well as students.
Pat Cook
Dothan Brook School (K-5_
Wilder, VT

Rating 5 This book is the best in this series for me. It creates excitement for your teacher, math and your future. It gives a positive spin on college at an early age to instill the expectancy that all children should go to college. The book also demonstrates a positive attitude for tutoring.

I would include this book in my Judy Moody Day. While at the Barbara Bush Library (HCPL), a co-worker and I held a Judy Moody Day. We presented different parts of her books for the program including the “Me Collage”, a treasure hunt and the making of mood rings. We did this with buttons and pipe cleaners. It was very successful. With the addition of this book, you could hold an art contest. Of course, all the participants would receive an honorable mention just like Judy Moody.

(I am a Children’s Librarian within the Harris County Public Library system. I have worked in libraries for 6 years and have a MLS. My undergraduate degree is in Elementary Ed with a reading minor. My name is Bonnie Langan and I will be transferring to the Baldwin Boettcher Library where I will work with children of all ages.)

This latest installment in the Judy Moody series is sure to be a hit with students. If elementary students find high schoolers fascinating, they will find a college student (especially one like Chloe) even more so.

Readers will enjoy Judy's attempts to take on a college persona in her third grade room. I think the best part was her effort to emulate Chloe's fashion sensibilities.

Teachers will appreciate the positive emphasis on math throughout the story - and the fact that the regular classroom teacher is missed terribly while he's away.

I would rate this book a 3. It's a fun read and will have a loyal audience, but is not a book I would plan a whole picnic around.

-Jennifer Samec, Media Specialist
Birchview Elementary School, Plymouth, MN

Author: Megan McDonald
Lexile Score: n/a, maybe around 500
Genre: realistic fiction
Maturity level: 2nd grade (I wondered, being one who survived "Naked Lady Class" myself, how I would explain nude figure drawing if asked by a student - Judy walks past such an art class and worries about having to go there)
Pages: 133 Chapters: 13 Average Chapter Length: 10 pages
Theme: College, language, slang, math
Project ideas: Field trip to college! College pen pals
First Line: When Judy Moody got to school on Monday, she had a new teacher. (I put a lot of stock in first lines - probably too much. This one is not exactly on my top ten list.)
Main Character: Judy Moody and her college tutor, Chloe
Review in 25 words or less: Judy Moody is literary candy for third graders, and the book reads a mile-a-minute.
Grade: A
Judy_moody I have had sets of Judy Moody in my classroom for years. I have to confess I haven't more than skimmed them until I recently read Judy Moody Goes to College. I absolutely loved it! Judy is quirky, flawed, daring, emotional and (her words) sick-awesome.
Judy Moody has a substitute teacher because her regular teacher broke a leg or something overseas. (Come to think of it, kudos to Ms. McDonald for making that particular back story more than just a passing thought - who the heck IS this teacher?) Her sub determines that Judy is deficient in math, and recommends tutoring to her parents. This puts Judy in a bad mood until she meets Chloe, her uber-tutor: a college student! Judy learns about math the hip college way and also gets a hands-on experience in college life. Soon she is dressing, eating and TALKING like a real college student - to the envy/disgust of all her peers.
I recently read a discussion online about series books - specifically, how series books are about all you can find at this middle-grade level. A point I hadn't considered was given: series books are perfect for readers at this level. They have only recently mastered reading but are not yet sophisticated enough to explore diverse genres. The comfort of going to a familiar genre - or in this case a familiar character and writing style - is perfect for them. I can imagine a third grader who enjoys one Judy Moody munching her way through every title in the series and still wanting more.
A few thoughts I had while reading JMGTC:
1. The chapters are all some play on the word attitude. Bad-itude, Math-itude, flunk-itude; it is such a fun exercise in the richness of language - perfect discussion material for a book club.
2. Judy adopts Chloe's college slang and uses it throughout the book. Some words are defined, some are not. I think students would have fun with the terms, possibly even incorporating them into their own language. This book continues the popular trend of glossaries in the back of the book. The inclusion of this kind of non-traditional reading, along with the "Who's Who" page at the beginning, add to the enjoyment of the book for younger readers.
3. Judy has a lot of inner monologue, and uses conventions such as Stink (her brother) = NCP (nincompoop). Students would pick up on this no problem, but it would be a good thing to point out in discussion. I had to pay close attention to quotation marks to keep up with her thinking!
I would give this book a 4 - I'll reserve 5s for classic literature and award-worthy titles. For a 3rd grade teacher (or 2nd/4th) the Judy Moody books are a must-have for the classroom library.

This book is a definite winner. I read it to all the second graders at my school, and it makes a great read-aloud. When Judy Moody visited the art class and called it the “Naked Lady class,” she had them rolling with laughter. The story moves quickly, and it's full of humor that the kids loved. Almost all of them know someone going to college, and it made for great real-life connections for them. Every single Judy Moody title in our library has stayed checked out ever since. I've been recommending it to students who love Junie B. Jones by Park and Clementine by Pennypacker.
As a teacher, I thought it would be a great novel to build a curricular theme around—you could work in math by talking about the topics Judy Moody discusses with her tutor, art through the art class Judy attends in the story, and even some environmental science topics. You might even take a field trip to a local college and see how it compares to the one Judy Moody visits in the story.
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Rebecca Dickenson, School Librarian,
Maryville, TN