Tales of a Fourth-Grade Nothing

Image from Chapters.ca

Tales of a Fourth-Grade Nothing is the first in Judy Blume’s “Fudge” series. The protagonist is Peter, a boy in fourth grade who is trying to deal with his mischievous younger brother. Peter is a very good role model for young boys and someone to whom all older siblings can relate. He is sensitive and caring, even when exasperated by his brother.

The series also wins points for its portrayal of fathers. Peter’s father is very involved with his family. At one point he takes a sabbatical from his job, allowing Peter’s mother to return to work. In a departure from most stories, the parents of Peter’s best friend are divorced and the boy lives with his father, not his mother. She is not an entirely sympathetic figure, but a father with custody after a marriage breakdown is a refreshing change. My son loved having this read to him at age 7, but the recommended age is 9-12.