brenna_reads_books's review against another edition
4.0
I really liked this book, though not as much as the Mr. Terupt trilogy by the same author. It was harder to relate to this book as I did to Because of Mr. Terupt. I still strongly recommend this book!
gohawks's review against another edition
4.0
If books can teach children empathy, this one is a good, albeit obvious, example. This is one of the better Golden Sower nominees for the 2019 awards. Buyea demonstrates that, unlike some of the others, this isn't his first middle grade novel.
ldblick12's review against another edition
2.0
This book was the student book club pick at the school where I work so I thought I would try it. Not my genre, enough said.
canadawithoutthec's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This was a fun read, good if you're looking for something quick and entertaining. I loved all the characters, and the plotline was fairly interesting as well. It also got a bit emotional towards the end, which added some nice depth to it. Overall, a great book.
soccer29's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
sillymilly14's review against another edition
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
This book was great. I loved Gavin. I also struggle with reading and you know, he’s pretty relatable to someone like me. Scott was such a vibe, and Natalie is fantastic. So excited for book 2!
hlp72604's review against another edition
5.0
I remember loving this book. This is one of the books I really remember loving! Great characters and I hope it helps more kids love to read. A great read aloud to use a teacher or with your kids
aconant's review against another edition
4.0
A very good story targeted at grades 4-6. I think this book would appeal to a fairly wide audience who appreciate school stories with some drama.
The story is broken into character storylines. I think that is part of why it probably appeals to large groups. Most students will likely have favorite characters that they like following. I like the way all the characters feel real in their flaws and how they overcome their personal challenges. There are some small mysteries/unanswered questions that keep readers wondering and make for good plot lines. It's a classic case of you never really know a person's true story. Scott is a completely magical character, everyone should have a Scott in their life.
The story acts as a cautionary tale against state testing. I do think the extreme to which the school goes to prepare for testing is more than what most kids are familiar with. In order for the author to make his point, I'm sure the extreme was necessary. It was hard listening to some of the parent negligence or lack of support. Trevor's storyline just about broke my heart.
Not to spoil too much but the ending wraps up nicely with a little bow. Listening to the story from a parent/teacher perspective I did get teary eyed at the end. I don't know if I was just emotional that morning or what but there were a whole handful of really great moments at the end.
The story is broken into character storylines. I think that is part of why it probably appeals to large groups. Most students will likely have favorite characters that they like following. I like the way all the characters feel real in their flaws and how they overcome their personal challenges. There are some small mysteries/unanswered questions that keep readers wondering and make for good plot lines. It's a classic case of you never really know a person's true story. Scott is a completely magical character, everyone should have a Scott in their life.
The story acts as a cautionary tale against state testing. I do think the extreme to which the school goes to prepare for testing is more than what most kids are familiar with. In order for the author to make his point, I'm sure the extreme was necessary. It was hard listening to some of the parent negligence or lack of support. Trevor's storyline just about broke my heart.
Not to spoil too much but the ending wraps up nicely with a little bow. Listening to the story from a parent/teacher perspective I did get teary eyed at the end. I don't know if I was just emotional that morning or what but there were a whole handful of really great moments at the end.
sab_reads14's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Physical abuse, Emotional abuse, and Bullying
Moderate: Dementia
Minor: Death