This book is about a seventh grader who thinks his teacher hates him, and he is having family troubles. Throughout the book, he gains respect for his teacher. This is a good book for students because it is relatable. ( )

Seventh grader Holling Hoodhood isn't happy. He is sure his new teacher, Mrs. Baker, hates his guts. Throughout the school year, Holling strives to get a handle on the Shakespeare plays Mrs. Baker assigns him to read on his own time, and to figure out the enigmatic Mrs. Baker. At home, Holling's domineering father is obsessed with his business image and disregards his family.
As the Vietnam War turns lives upside down, Holling comes to admire and respect both Shakespeare and Mrs. Baker, who have more to offer him than he imagined. And when his family is on the verge of coming apart, he also discovers his loyalty to his sister, and his ability to stand up to his father when it matters most.
Each month in Holling's tumultuous seventh-grade year is a chapter in this quietly powerful coming-of-age novel set in suburban Long Island during the late '60s. ( )

If Catcher in the Rye were any good, it would be this book. Getting 5th graders to laugh at Shakespeare plots and dialogue is no small accomplishment! The June chapter contains a scene of stunning beauty that is an apt counterargument to Fitzgerald's boat beating against the current. The book skillfully envelops large themes in the sometimes mundane, sometime ridiculous life of a 7th grader living in 1968. ( )

When I checked out this audiobook from the library, I somehow didn't know it was middle grade. The first chapter or so had me thinking I wasn't going to love it, but as the story went on, it deepened. I really enjoyed it, and I think it would be a good family listen for families with elementary aged kids. Lots to talk about in terms of parent/child communication and relationships. ( )

I read this book to my junior high-aged son. We both enjoyed it, and I think junior high is the appropriate target age group for this book. It dealt with some serious topics--the Vietnam War and racism--and also included some funny/goofy elements. I'm glad that we read this together, and it prompted some good discussions. ( )