Title: No Talking
Author: Andrew Clements:
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
ISBN-13: 978-1416909835
Starred review in: SLJ, Booklist, Kirkus, PW
Review: Clements returns to the school setting with the story of a 5th grade that's so uncontrollable they have been dubbed "The Unshushables" by the faculty. After reading about Mahatma Gandhi and his nonviolent protest, Dave takes his principles to heart. This leads to a "quiet" competition between Dave and his nemesis, Lynsey. And now the entire fifth grade is involved, boys against girls. The book not only shows how the students handle the contest, but also the teachers and principal. I liked the book because everyone, kids and adults, have different reactions. The third person narrative gets "precious" in some places, but the book does work on many levels. The characters are sympathetic, the situation is interesting, there's a nice resolution and it's a great springboard for discussion.
Reviewed by: Debby K., Oradell
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1 comment:
Clements is one of my favorites. I love the way he twists the roles of kids and adults. I can't wait to read this one, it along with Edge of the Heroic World are next on my reading list.
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