Module 2: Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing

Book Summary:

In Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume, we meet Peter Hatcher, a fourth grader dealing with life as an older brother. Peter is expected to understand when his two and a half year old brother, Fudge (Farley Drexel Hatcher) gets into his room, touches his things, ruins his school project, and even eats Peter's pet turtle. Fourth grade is hard enough, but Peter finds life in Fudge's shadow challenging. He spends most of the book trying to be a good son, but is really frustrated because Fudge always seems to get the best while Peter has to settle for doing what's right. Like when Mrs. Hatcher makes Fudge special pork chops (Peter's favorite) because Fudge won't eat. Peter is told he can't have them until later when Fudge agrees to eat corn flakes in bowl on the floor like a dog. 
 
APA Reference:

Blume, J. (1991).  New York, NY: A Yearling Book.

My Impressions:

I remember doing a book report in fourth grade on Double Fudge so I thought it would be good to see where it all started.I enjoyed this book so much I finished it in about an hour and a half. The next day I called my mom and asked if she ever made my sister do things like Peter to make me do stuff. Her answer was yes. I felt sorry for Peter and found that his feelings are very typical to most older siblings. When he is given a book that he already owns and has outgrown, he does the polite thing and says thank you and even goes so far as to fake enthusiasm. I found myself remembering times when I had to do something similar. It always made me uncomfortable and disappointed, then I would feel guilty for the disappointment. I can see Peter feels the same way. This is a good book for children who are getting older and have to adjust to new expectations from their parents.

Professional Review:

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing is the first of these entertaining yarns. Peter, because he's the oldest, must deal with Fudgie's disgusting cuteness, his constant meddling with Peter's stuff, and other grave offenses, one of which is almost too much to bear. All these incidents are presented with the unfailing ear and big-hearted humor of the masterful Judy Blume. Though some of her books for older kids have aroused controversy, the Hatcher brothers and their adventures remain above the fray, where they belong.

Amazon.com Reviews (n.d.). Editorial Reviews. Retrieved from Amazon.com website: http://www.amazon.com/Tales-Fourth-Grade-Nothing-Blume/dp/product-description/0142401013/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books

Library Uses:

I would use this book as a book study with students who are entering fourth grade. This would allow them to read the book and discuss how they feel about what happens to Peter while at the same time exploring how they feel about growing up. This can help them deal with life issues in a positive way and not feel singled out.