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Sahara Special

(2003, Fiction - School, Written by Esme Codell)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 8, age appropriate for kids over 9; suggested age 9.
  • Is it any good?

    5.0
  • Common Sense says

    A lovely, moving book about a student and teacher.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 9 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Sahara doesn't do schoolwork, and one of her classmates is very rude to the teacher.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Not an issue.
  • Sex:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Some mild swearing.
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Adults smoking and drinking is mentioned.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Sahara Special

Parents need to know that there's nothing of concern but plenty to talk about in this story of a girl who gets much-needed help from an unconventional teacher.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about Miss Pointy's unconventional style, Sahara's way of dealing with her problems, the rather negative view of school counselors and special education teachers, and lots more. Because there's so much to talk about, this would be a great book for school and parent/child literature groups.

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Our Members Say

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  • What did you think about Sahara Special?
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See all 16 member reviews

Most Recent Reviews

  1. I rate this title on for age 9 and give it 5.0
    My concerns are:
    • Excessive violence
    • Inappropriate language
    • Drinking, smoking, or drug use

    • My highlights are:
    • Educational

    sharaspecail

    its the best book ever its so funny with darrell in it

  2. I rate this title iffy for age 11 and give it 2.0

    Okay

    i read this book in school, and i saw the words a**, b**** twice. i didn't believe it.

  3. Kid Reviewer Age 11
    Lives in New York
    I rate this title on for age 10 and give it 5.0

    The story of a sad and happy girl

    i think i really liked this book but it was type boring and had way too much detail this book takes place in Chicago in several different places the main character is Sahara.

  4. Kid Reviewer Age 12
    Lives in Vermont
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    An amazing, touching book

    This book was just amazing. I had a clear picture of what was going on during the story. I felt like I was the one dealing with Sahara's problems, instead of her. I too, had a stong love for Miss. Pointy, and my heart also reached out to Daryl! A must read for anyone 9 and up!

  5. Parent Reviewer
    Lives in New York
    I rate this title on for age 11 and give it 5.0

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