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Creators
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Series
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Publisher
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Awards
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Release date
November 25, 2002 -
Formats
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OverDrive Listen audiobook
- ISBN: 9781932076943
- File size: 141297 KB
- Duration: 04:54:22
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Languages
- English
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Levels
- ATOS Level: 5.2
- Lexile® Measure: 960
- Interest Level: 4-8(MG)
- Text Difficulty: 5-6
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Reviews
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Bobby Goodspeed is not your typical 12-year-old. He's probably the world's youngest tie salesman. He also meets his friends at the local Candy Kitchen for regular "forums." When his friend Addie decides they need to create a third political party for the school election, Bobby gets an idea that could really change Paintbrush Falls Middle School. An interview with the author follows. Full Cast Audio delivers an outstanding performance for listeners of all ages. Over twenty narrators lend their voices to the story. All the young performers show great potential, especially those reading for the main characters. J.M.P. 2004 Audie Award Finalist (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine -
May 19, 2003
PW
called this story of four best friends, the target of cruel name-calling who decide they aren't going to take it anymore, "an upbeat, reassuring novel that encourages preteens and teens to celebrate their individuality." Ages 10-14. -
October 29, 2001
What do a 12-year-old student who moonlights as a tie salesman, a tall, outspoken girl, a gay middle schooler and a kid branded as a hooligan have in common? Best friends for years, they've all been the target of cruel name-calling and now that they're in seventh grade, they're not about to take it any more. In this hilarious and poignant novel, Howe (Bunnicula; The Watcher) focuses on the quietest of the bunch, overweight Bobby Goodspeed (the tie salesman), showing how he evolves from nerd to hero when he starts speaking his mind. Addie (the outspoken girl) decides that the four of them should run against more popular peers in the upcoming student council election. But her lofty ideals and rabble-rousing speeches make the wrong kind of waves, offending fellow classmates, teachers and the principal. It is not until softer-spoken Bobby says what's in his heart about nicknames and taunts that people begin to listen and take notice, granting their respect for the boy they used to call "Lardo" and "Fluff." The four "misfits" are slightly larger than life—wiser than their years, worldlier than the smalltown setting would suggest, and remarkably well-adjusted—but there remains much authenticity in the story's message about preadolescent stereotyping and the devastating effects of degrading labels. An upbeat, reassuring novel that encourages preteens and teens to celebrate their individuality. Ages 10-14.
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