Dowell, Frances ORoark. Phineas L. Macguire Erupts

[Mary]

This book was very refreshing for me! It might just be that I've read entirely too many "problem" books for the upper end of the Newbery age spectrum recently, but it was nice to read a chapter book geared more to younger chapter book readers. It's difficult to compare this more simple writing style with some of the complex titles on our list, and there were parts of the book that seemed out of place -- like the school nurse's discussion with Mac when he has a nosebleed -- but I thought the main characters were well developed. I also enjoyed the science experiments at the end of the book... I imagine exploding film canisters will be flying! Has anyone else read this? Comments?

[rach]

I also found this book refreshing and fun. I agree that some things seemed out of place (I'm still mulling over the closet incident), but I really enjoyed the characters. I also appreciated the illustrations that will help with student comprehension.

[DianeB]

Good book. I thought the part about re-introducing the unlikeable classmate was like a breath of fresh air. Peer pressure finally conquered. The experiments were well written into the story. I hope this becomes a series, with Mac graduating to his next school year with grade appropriate experiments.

[Tess]

The author does an excellent job showing the characters. Mac's voice is wonderful. I hate to say that I see much of myself in his easily irritated mother. I didn't have any problem with the nose-picking conversation since it was something that Mac seemed to notice so much with Mac R. and admitted he did himself when he KNEW no one was looking. Maybe it will discourage more nosepickers.

As for the closet incident, I thought we were being set up that Mac R. would be accused. I was relieved when it didn't come to that and through the use of logic, the culprit was identified.

I enjoyed this book thoroughly and look forward to more of his adventures with Ben, Aretha and the rest. As for the Newbery, I say "why not?" I can't say that it moves past Firegirl in my rankings, but it sure moves up to one of the best I've read so far this year.