Extra Credit by Andrew Clements

Extra Credit by Andrew Clements
(Grades 3 - 5)

Abby Carson is an Illinois 6th grader who doesn't always love school. By mid-year her teachers inform her that she may not move on the 7th grade. Unthinkable! Unaccpetable! Abby is determined to turn things around though her teachers are skeptical. An understanding teacher gives Abby an extra credit project that just may bump her grade. She is to find a pen pal in another country and create a bulletin board tracking their correspondence. Abby's letters finally reach Sadeed, a 10-year-old boy in Afghanistan who has studied English and likes to write. His country's custom discourages girls and boys from corresponding, however, so they enlist the help of Sadeed's younger sister Amira. Soon, even this arrangement puts the siblings in jeopardy. Abby's newfound friendship and her project is at risk of falling apart. What will happen to Sadeed and Amira? will Abby find a way to love learning? Will she move on to 7th grade? This new release from beloved author Andrew Clements (Frindle, No Talking) tackles difficult cultural issues with humor, grace and creativity. A fabulous read for the middle elementary grades with full-page illustrations sprinkled throughout.

Visit www.newberglibrary.org to find this book at our library.

Reviewed by Amanda L., Children's Staff