“Someone should tell you not to answer the phone in the
principal's office, if that's a rule.” ~Clementine by Sara Pennypacker
Clementine
is in third grade and she is not having
such a good week. She tries to help her neighbor, Margaret, when she gets glue
in her hair, and the next thing she knows she is in the principal's office. Clementine admits that Margaret’s haircut looks
a little different, but she sees it as a beautiful dandelion hairdo. She even
has an idea to make it look even better! While the principal is talking to
Margaret’s mom, Clementine helps her out by answering a few phone calls. It’s
the least she can do. Back in their apartment building the two friends try to
make the situation better, but take things a bit too far. Margaret’s mom is
very unhappy. Will Clementine ever be allowed to play with Margaret again? What
will happen when she “borrows” her mom’s fancy markers? Will the painters on
the fifth floor ever want her help painting on stilts? You will have to find out how the rest of
Clementine’s week turns out! You’ll laugh
as you turn the pages as you get to know these memorable characters.
Clementine by Sara Pennypacker is a
hilarious book that will make you want to know Clementine. Not only does she have
a unique way of looking at things, but her funny antics will crack you
up. Clementine is genuine and says what she thinks. She can’t seem to
understand why she ends up in trouble or in predicaments. Clementine is simply
curious and tries to help others, but often with an unexpected outcome. I could
easily relate to Clementine and her friendship with Margaret, because often we
are friends with people who are a little different, but we also have things
in common. The style reminds me of Junie B. Jones, only Clementine isn’t as
fresh. If you have not read this story, I recommend it for a day when you need
a laugh or two. By the end of the story you will be smiling! I know there are a
whole series of books about Clementine and I can only imagine the trouble she
gets into in the future!
Has anyone else read Clementine?
Or have you read another book by Sara Pennypacker? We’d love to hear your
thoughts!
Happy Reading!
~L
