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4.15 AVERAGE
4.15 AVERAGE
This was a sweet little book. It would make for an enjoyable read aloud for 5th graders. I had some issues with the adults in this book, but the writing was “real swell.”
Suggested by the fantastic Children's Lit Librarian at work for our employee book group, this novel took me by surprise: I was not in the mood for YA fiction but was nonetheless engrossed by the wryly perceptive voice of the observant and charming Holling Hoodhood. The fact that it takes place during the late 60s amid the turmoil of assassinations, Civil Rights, Flower People, and Vietnam adds depth to Holling's entertaining and heartfelt tale of junior high woe, as filtered through his own (spot-on) Shakespearean lens.
Absolutely brilliant. I love writers who can make mundane things epic and epic things tangible all in the same narrative. The plot works on so many levels - and includes so many things that you would think it would get lost or confusing, but the whole thing works. I love the relationship between Holling and Mrs. Baker, the way Shakespeare is interwoven into the plot, the genuine sincerity of the character interactions. Incredible book and I can't wait for the follow up.
The only downside is that rats make up a significant plot point. I will forgive this, but only because all of the characters think they are gross and awful too.
The only downside is that rats make up a significant plot point. I will forgive this, but only because all of the characters think they are gross and awful too.
funny
lighthearted
reflective
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Felt almost like a cross between historical fiction and realistic fiction. Good story. Disliked the protagonist's dad throughout book-real jerk.
What a great audio book! I was looking for a book that was a bit lighter than what I've been reading lately. I thought it might be nice to see what has been published recently for young people. This was published in 2007 so it's been around for awhile. The choice could not have been better.
This story is a look at life in the 60's from the perspective of Holling Hoodhood, a seventh grade boy. He has to spend his Wednesday afternoons with his teacher, Mrs. Baker, who he is sure hates his guts. He tells his stories of friendships, bullies, teachers, family and life in the age of the Vietnam War.
It was a heart-warming, funny, honest, and altogether enjoyable book to listen to. The narrator captured the flavor of this book entirely. It was one of the best audiobooks I've listened to. I would recommend it to young people and also folks my age - I grew up in the 60's and could relate to so much. I would give this book 6 stars if I could and will enjoy listening again sometime, I'm sure.
This story is a look at life in the 60's from the perspective of Holling Hoodhood, a seventh grade boy. He has to spend his Wednesday afternoons with his teacher, Mrs. Baker, who he is sure hates his guts. He tells his stories of friendships, bullies, teachers, family and life in the age of the Vietnam War.
It was a heart-warming, funny, honest, and altogether enjoyable book to listen to. The narrator captured the flavor of this book entirely. It was one of the best audiobooks I've listened to. I would recommend it to young people and also folks my age - I grew up in the 60's and could relate to so much. I would give this book 6 stars if I could and will enjoy listening again sometime, I'm sure.
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
emotional
hopeful
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Loved this book. My dad was the same age at this time period and loved the Yankees. It was fun to glimpse into a bit of what his life could’ve been like back then.