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A review by wandering_reads
The Next Great Paulie Fink by Ali Benjamin
5.0
For the entire summary & review, please visit at https://thepageandpassport.com/?p=417 .
Caitlyn Breen is that new kid at Mitchell School. She's especially that new kid because her grade 7 class is so small. Besides being the new kid, she also is stepping into the biggest, boldest shoes imaginable ... those of Paulie Fink, legendary trickster and prankster. Everyone expected Paulie on the first day of school, but when he doesn't show up, Caitlyn is sucked unexpectedly into a realty-show-type game where she must choose the next great Paulie Fink.
Alright, this is a feel good middle grade book that I sort of ate up because it's that heart-felt and well-written. Ali Benjamin manages to introduce Greek philosophy (Plato's 'Allegory of the Cave', anyone?) and mythology and the concept of mythologizing all in a completely understandable manner ... even for middle grade students. It's approachable and meaningful.
It's an enjoyable read with many great messages. The action really moved along, with great laughs (escaped goats!) and moments of growth, and it kept my interest. The cast of characters - students, parents, teachers, and principal - were relatable and had unique voices and perspectives. This is a great book to teach kids empathy and the importance of looking beyond initial impressions, along with being unafraid of change and growth.
Caitlyn Breen is that new kid at Mitchell School. She's especially that new kid because her grade 7 class is so small. Besides being the new kid, she also is stepping into the biggest, boldest shoes imaginable ... those of Paulie Fink, legendary trickster and prankster. Everyone expected Paulie on the first day of school, but when he doesn't show up, Caitlyn is sucked unexpectedly into a realty-show-type game where she must choose the next great Paulie Fink.
Alright, this is a feel good middle grade book that I sort of ate up because it's that heart-felt and well-written. Ali Benjamin manages to introduce Greek philosophy (Plato's 'Allegory of the Cave', anyone?) and mythology and the concept of mythologizing all in a completely understandable manner ... even for middle grade students. It's approachable and meaningful.
It's an enjoyable read with many great messages. The action really moved along, with great laughs (escaped goats!) and moments of growth, and it kept my interest. The cast of characters - students, parents, teachers, and principal - were relatable and had unique voices and perspectives. This is a great book to teach kids empathy and the importance of looking beyond initial impressions, along with being unafraid of change and growth.