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Synopsis
Hamish loves stories. He especially loves listening to his grandpa, who reads with lots of expression. Hamish’s brother, Nathan, is a good reader, too. Actually, Nathan is a genius. Hamish himself is just smart, or thinks he’s smart until he starts third grade, and his teacher, Miss Margin, asks him to read aloud. Instead of reading, he makes up a wild story about the Happy Jolly Farming Cow. Before too long, Hamish’s secret is out. Miss Margin escorts Hamish to Mr. Robinson, the reading teacher, who tells Hamish that reading is a very serious matter. Still, Hamish insists on making up stories instead of reading the flashcards. Mr. Robinson sends Hamish home with a note to his parents, who are stunned to learn that Hamish can’t read. Eventually Nathan steps in, persuading Mom and Dad to buy Hamish a toy truck if he learns to read a children’s picture book. Hamish has always wanted an awesome toy truck, but is he up to the challenge? Kate Walker’s witty, sensitive text answers that question in a beautifully illustrated story with an important message about conquering fears and setting — and surpassing — new goals.
School Library Journal
Gr 2-5 - This is a warm and fast-paced story about a boy who overcomes his problems. Hamish used to love books-until he realized he couldn't read. His idea of reading is to stand in front of an open volume, make up a story, and tell it with lots of expression. Everyone thinks his tales are wonderful, and teachers and students alike are impressed. But things quickly change for Hamish in third grade. Miss Margin disapproves of his wild stories and soon discovers his problem. Her solution is the dreaded book room for the "dummy" kids. Mr. Robinson, the reading teacher, isn't impressed with Hamish's creative style either and calls in his parents. They try their best to encourage him to learn, with humorous results, but it takes his brother to break him into the habit. Witty black-and-white line drawings enhance the narrative. An appropriate choice for readers new to chapter books and reluctant readers who need that extra encouragement.-Alison Grant, Ruby S. Thomas Elementary School, Las Vegas, NV
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