October 1, 2014
Gr 1-5-In the latest series installment (after Miss Holly Is Too Jolly), it's Presidents' Day. The students of Ella Mentry School must each pick a president to write about, present to the class what they've learned, and dress up like that president. Mr. Macky is the reading specialist and more thrilled than anyone in the school to dress up like a president. A.J. and his friends are less than excited. A.J. begrudgingly completes the project and presents to his class as Ben Franklin, not realizing that Franklin wasn't even a president. This story is full of rude characters, sarcastic dialogue, and a ridiculous plot. Younger students who are attracted to this series could easily misinterpret the humor (for example, kids call one another "dumbhead" numerous times). Jared Goldsmith narrates the story and provides listeners with funny character voices. This may fit the bill for diehard fans of Gutman's series, though it lacks a broader appeal.-Jessica Gilcreast, Bedford School District, NH
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