From School Library Journal
Grade 2-4 Hurwitz has created a third-grade classroom full of lively, true-to-life individuals, but Lucas Cott is the real star. A boy full of enthusiasm and an overabundance of energy, never deliberately misbehaving but always wanting attention, he tries the patience of everyone with whom he interacts. Once again Hurwitz exhibits her talent for creating characters who talk, act, and think just like real kids. Adults are also given three-dimensional treatment, from Lucas' often exasperated teacher, whose patience with him wears thin but never out, to his mother, loving yet harried because of Lucas and her twin toddlers. There are some very funny moments here, as well as some gentle and touching ones. An episode in which Lucas' decision to bring a bagful of fall leaves rather than the one or two his teacher has assigned backfires will make a perfect read-aloud chapter. Realistic dialogue, short sentences in large print, and commonplace situations that sparkle with humor combines to make this a fine choice for children just beginning chapter books. Trev Jones.
Grade 2-4 Hurwitz has created a third-grade classroom full of lively, true-to-life individuals, but Lucas Cott is the real star. A boy full of enthusiasm and an overabundance of energy, never deliberately misbehaving but always wanting attention, he tries the patience of everyone with whom he interacts. Once again Hurwitz exhibits her talent for creating characters who talk, act, and think just like real kids. Adults are also given three-dimensional treatment, from Lucas' often exasperated teacher, whose patience with him wears thin but never out, to his mother, loving yet harried because of Lucas and her twin toddlers. There are some very funny moments here, as well as some gentle and touching ones. An episode in which Lucas' decision to bring a bagful of fall leaves rather than the one or two his teacher has assigned backfires will make a perfect read-aloud chapter. Realistic dialogue, short sentences in large print, and commonplace situations that sparkle with humor combines to make this a fine choice for children just beginning chapter books. Trev Jones.
