by Sara Pennypacker
illustrated by Marla Frazee
Hyperion, 2008. 150 pgs.
Reading Level: ages 5-10
Hardcover: $14.99
Annotation: After finally getting the hang of 3rd grade, Clementine might lose her teacher to an archeological dig.
Summary: Clementine is no stranger to the principal's office and she and Mrs. Rice are old friends. But for once, she's only being sent to retrieve her for a special announcement. Except it turns out to be the worst announcement in Clementine's life. Mrs. Rice tells Dr. D'Matz's third grade class that she's nominated their teacher for a special archaeological dig in Egypt, which means he'll be gone for a whole week and potentially the rest of the year. Clementine is dismayed because she and Mr. D'Matz have finally come to an understanding and she's actually liking school now and definitely not looking forward to a substitute. Just as Clementine predicted, Mrs. Nagel comes in and starts being mean to her and changing all the rules around. So when her class is asked to write letters to the nomination committee deciding Mr. D'Matz's fate, Clementine decides to make sure her letter will keep Mr. D'Matz right where she wants him--in her class as her teacher. But will her mischievous letter ruin her relationship with her favorite teacher?
Evaluation: Coming third in the series, Clementine's Letter is a delightful story and you haven't already, you'll fall in love with Clementine's precocious personality and tender heart. There's lots of humor and Clementine's voice is well written and thoroughly likeable. Pennypacker creates a cast of peripheral characters that complement Clementine and add spark to a charming tale of unintentional mischief. The bond between Mr. D'Matz and Clementine is sweet and the story will conjure up fond memories of your own favorite grade school teacher. Frazee's illustrations capture Clementine's spunk and the story and the images are a perfect pairing. It's sure to be a hit with kids of all types and temperaments, but it is especially suited for those children who find themselves in trouble at school more often than not.
Significance: Pennypacker teaches us that when you love someone, sometimes you have to let them go.
Personal Choice: Admittedly, the cover lured me in and I fell in love with Clementine's adorable curly, red hair which reminded me of little orphan Annie. Both girls have a zest for life and the gumption to make things happen while performing large acts of charity for the adults in their life.
Awards: Christopher Winner, 2009
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