First off: What an amazing book! So many great lessons in here and written for a way that students in grades 3-5 can really understand.
While the main character is in 5th grade, I think the lessons in here are better suited to at or slightly under audiences. I did use this with a 5/6 class and had them all hooked; but the best response I got was from a 3/4 class.
This book follows Bradley Chalkers – the ‘oldest and meanest’ boy in 5th grade, whose also a compulsive liar. His lies are so obvious and outrageous that the kids are immediately engaged and invested in what happens next.
Personally I loved using this book as a read aloud because of the rich discussions I could get out of my class, especially nearer the beginning of the year when they are still finding their feet in the classroom and discovering where they belong. Bradley is a complete misfit, and a bully, and I think a lot of students gravitate to him because they also feel like misfits in their classroom. That is, until the school councilor Carla steps in. Carla is able to give Bradley the patience and understanding he needs, while also setting reasonable boundaries. This brings out his inner desire to succeed to impress her, and he learns a lot along the way!
I suggest reading a chapter at a time with your students and before long they’ll be begging for more and giving you a lot to work with for their comprehension assessments!
Overall 4.5/5 starts from me!
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