Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing

Judy Blume. Scholastic Inc., 2002. ISBN: 978-0439559867

Plot Summary: Peter is getting fed up with his little brother. Fudge is 21/2 and he rules their apartment and their family. Not only will he not leave Dribble, Peter's turtle alone, but he eats under the table like a dog at mealtimes! Fudge's behavior takes up all his parent's time and attention and leaves little for well behaved Peter. Peter can't even get his parents help in defending his room from his little brother. When a turtle disaster strikes, how will the family cope? Will Peter's good behavior be rewarded?

Critical Evaluation: This book is well written and will appeal to the tween age group. Reader's will sympathize with Peter and i feelings ob being invisible at times in his family. Peter's character will also set a good example to young reader's as he is responsible, gentle, a good friend, and a considerate member of his family. While the book contains a good message, it is not too preachy or heavy handed that it will turn reader's off.

Reader's Annotation: Poor Peter! His 21/2 year old brother Fudge is ruining his life. If he's not throwing tantrums in restaurants he is wrecking Peter's school project. How can Peter cat some attention from his parents if Fudge is taking it all?

Genre: Humor/Fiction
Interest Level: 8-12 years old
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, can be directed to research the author and the awards she has received, read reviews written of the book by tweens, or speak to librarians about other books in the genre.

About the Author: Judy Blume is the author of many classics for the tween and teen age group including: Super Fudge, Otherwise Known and Sheila the Great, Freckle Juice and many others. She has won over 90 awards for her writing and also has the honor of being one of the "most banned" children's authors. Are you there God, It's Me, Margaret?, is rated number 62 on the list of the top 100 challenged books.
Selection Process: Selected from library display.