  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 08/01/2016 Of the many things ruining fifth grade, class-bully Rocko is at the top of Ben Hunter’s list. Not only did Rocko “accidentally” break Ben’s clavicle during summer camp but now he’s stealing all Ben’s friends at school, including the attentions of pretty Serena Perl. The only good thing about fifth grade is that Ben gets to have the kind and caring Ms. Washington for a teacher. Things aren’t great at home either. He’s cursed with a “too-safe” mom, who won’t let him ride his bike alone and packs embarrassing all-natural, no-sugar lunches. Much like Liz Pichon does in her Tom Gates series, Block and Hemingway address realistic problems that an average kid might face with humor, sensitivity, and funny illustrations. Many chapters include Ben’s personal writing assignments for school as well as Ms. Washington’s thoughtful responses. As Ben’s unhappiness deepens, his teacher and mom help him cope with his problems—which, thankfully, includes eating sugary Popsicles—and Ben finds he’s not friendless after all. A great pick for those struggling with school or feeling their first flutterings of independence. - Copyright 2016 Booklist. Loading...
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