3.96
"The School Story" by Andrew Clements is a heartwarming and engaging novel for middle grade readers. The story revolves around Natalie, a sixth-grader with a knack for writing, who has just completed an exciting manuscript for a novel. With the encouragement of her best friend Zoe, Natalie decides to try and get her book published, but there's one problem - she doesn't want her overbearing mother to find out. Together, the two friends come up with a clever plan to bypass the traditional publishing route and self-publish Natalie's book. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles, including dealing with a skeptical printer, a pushy classmate, and their own self-doubt. Clements has crafted a delightful tale that explores themes of friendship, creativity, and perseverance. The characters are well-developed, relatable, and full of personality. Natalie is a strong and determined protagonist, while Zoe is loyal and supportive, with a bit of mischief thrown in. The author also does an excellent job of capturing the ups and downs of middle school life, making the story resonate with young readers. One of the standout features of "The School Story" is the way it demystifies the publishing process. Clements provides a realistic and informative look at what it takes to get a book published, from writing a query letter to dealing with rejection. This aspect of the story will be particularly appealing to young readers who have dreams of becoming writers themselves. Overall, "The School Story" is a charming and uplifting read that is sure to delight and inspire young readers. Its engaging plot, relatable characters, and valuable insights into the publishing process make it a standout addition to any middle grade library...
Katherine Paterson
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