True or False?: Tests Stink!

Tests are hard. Tests are scary. In fact, tests stink! But no matter how kids (and parents, and teachers) feel about tests, they’re part of life. To succeed in school, kids need to ask, “How can I be a better test-taker?”

This book has the answers. In the tradition of Trevor’s book, How to Do Homework Without Throwing Up, it offers proven strategies and practical advice . . . plus plenty of humor and goofy cartoons. As kids smile and laugh their way through the pages, they’ll discover tips and information that will help them survive and thrive in all kinds of test situations.

Topics include: how to overcome test anxiety, procrastination, and perfectionism; how to prepare for specific types of tests (multiple choice, true-false, timed, take-home, standardized); how to handle cheaters; how to get extra help from tutors, mentors, and/or study groups; the pros and cons of guessing; how to feel better about tests in general; and much more.

Other study guides can be dry, boring, and much toooo lonnnng. True or False? Tests Stink! is fun, entertaining, and (like Trevor’s other books) small but mighty. It can inspire even reluctant and anxious students to do and be their best on test days.

Offers proven strategies, practical advice, and information to help readers survive in all kinds of test situations, including tips on overcoming test anxiety and procrastination, preparing for tests, the pros and cons of guessing, and more.

Tests are hard. Tests are scary. In fact, tests stink! But no matter how kids (and parents, and teachers) feel about tests, they’re part of life. To succeed in school, kids need to ask, “How can I be a better test-taker?”

This book has the answers. In the tradition of Trevor’s book, How to Do Homework Without Throwing Up, it offers proven strategies and practical advice . . . plus plenty of humor and goofy cartoons. As kids smile and laugh their way through the pages, they’ll discover tips and information that will help them survive and thrive in all kinds of test situations.

Topics include: how to overcome test anxiety, procrastination, and perfectionism; how to prepare for specific types of tests (multiple choice, true-false, timed, take-home, standardized); how to handle cheaters; how to get extra help from tutors, mentors, and/or study groups; the pros and cons of guessing; how to feel better about tests in general; and much more.

Other study guides can be dry, boring, and much toooo lonnnng. True or False? Tests Stink! is fun, entertaining, and (like Trevor’s other books) small but mighty. It can inspire even reluctant and anxious students to do and be their best on test days.

Children's Literature

Everyone has experienced the flutter of butterflies in their stomach when test taking time rolls around. The often daunting, but inevitable task of test taking is addressed most candidly in this helpful guide to overcoming pre-test stress. Readers will chuckle at the canny cartoons, and learn some practical strategies for test taking victory! Many survival tools are offered here, including the benefits of practice tests, starring important class notes, good vs. bad test posture, and how to avoid too much stress--all practical hints for using the process. This book is a great way for kids to learn how to approach tests with confidence. The advice is presented in a simple, but humorous style. One will be easily engaged by the entertaining illustrations and imaginary test situations. All in all, the book lets kids know that they are not alone. Test fears are normal, and there are ways to overcome them and experience some test-taking success. This is Trevor Roamine's fourth "Self-Help for Kids" book from Free Spirit. 1999, Free Spirit, Ages 9 to 12, $9.95. Reviewer: Adrian Kiger

When Trevor Romain was 12, his teacher told him he wasn't talented enough to do art. By accident, he found out 20 years later that he could draw. Since that lucky day, he has written and illustrated 20 books for children. In addition to writing, illustrating, and speaking at schools, Trevor is a board member of the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation and can often be found on the cancer ward at Brackenridge Hospital in Austin, Texas, doing his rounds as “Doctor of Mischief.”

Elizabeth Verdick is a children's book writer and editor.  She lives in Minnesota with her husband and their two children.