Monday, May 12, 2008

Clementine's Letter by Sara Pennypacker


"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of . . . ouch!"

The Abstract is hidden to prevent possible spoilers. If you'd like to read this brief summary, just highlight it using your cursor and it will magically appear in the following lines.

Abstract: Clementine can't believe her ears; her beloved teacher, Mr. D'Matz, might be leaving them for the rest of the year to go on a research trip to Egypt! No other teacher has ever understood her impulsiveness, her itch to draw constantly, or her need to play 'Beat the Clock' when the day feels too long. And in his place, he's left a substitute with a whole new set of rules that Clementine just can't figure out. The only solution, she decides, is to hatch a plan to get Mr. D'Matz back. If it means ruining her teacher's once-in-a-lifetime chance -- well, it's worth it. Isn't it?

Publisher: Hyperion Books for Children; 150 pages; Pictures by Marla Frazee

7 comments:

Kris said...

I know the Clementine books have been on our lists before, and often people comment about how they like the books, but they're just not Newbery contenders...I've been giving this latest Clementine title a lot of thought. Here's my argument for why I believe this book COULD be a Newbery contender...Yes, the stories are short, not overly complicated, and LOL funny, but the characters (especially of Clementine, but also for the the other children and adults around her) are SO well-presented, their words and actions give an amazing glimpse into the minds of children and adults, shedding light on the ways they are different, but also on the ways they are the same. One of the signs (in my opinion) of a truly great story is that it "works" on many levels, and I believe this story does just that.

Teresa said...

Yep, everyone needs to read this one so we can discuss it January. Pennypacker has created a Clementine story that is believable and fun. The story stands on its own. When we meet in January, I might just be using my stingray eyes, so be prepared.

Anonymous said...

I liked this book better than any of the other Clementine books. An easy reader, but a good story and it made me smile. I don't think it's fine enough to win the Newberry. Perfect for nighttime if you can't go to sleep.

Anonymous said...

This book rocks!!! It's the best of em all!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Anonymous said...

I thought this book was very similar to the Junie B. books, and just not up to my expectations for Newbery winner, compared to the other books I have read this far. It was a fun read, and Clementine is a cute character, but I didn't find much beyond that.

Jen said...

I think this was the best Clementine book yet, but I've read a lot of book this year that I think would make better contenders.

Anonymous said...

Jamie at TUFW: I had never read a Clementine book until now and I loved it. Clementine's character gives an insight into what children are thinking and why they do what they do. I found her to be so funny and entertaining! This book was cute, but I am not sure that it is Newbery material.