 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Flying Solo
- By Ralph Fletcher
- Genre: School
Common Sense Media says
Funny, real, and powerfully moving.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that there are some good moral issues to discuss here, and some powerful insights into people and the reasons why they act the way they do.
What's the story?
When the substitute for Mr. Fabiano's sixth grade class calls in sick, her message is misplaced in the hectic office, and the children find themselves without a teacher. Rather than tell anyone, the students decide to run the class themselves. They know the schedule -- who needs adults? "What could possibly happen? This school is crawling with teachers."
But powerful emotions are brewing under the seemingly ordinary surface; this is the six-month anniversary of the death of a classmate, Tommy, who was often teased for his slowness, and Rachel has been mute ever since his death. And it is Bastian's last day before moving away.
Is it any good?
Ralph Fletcher teachers writing, and he teaches teachers how to teach writing. Here he shows that he knows what he's talking about. Written in simple language, this is a tour de force with an emotional climax and some big questions left at the end for readers to wrestle with.
The children in this class are vividly alive, each a three-dimensional person with strengths and faults, all of which will be recognizable to child readers. As they bicker their way through the day they achieve, almost in spite of themselves, something they're proud of, though their parents and school are horrified by what they have done. Though the teacher, Mr. Fabiano, appears only at the end, his presence is felt on every page -- it's a portrait, both brilliant and realistic, of a truly gifted teacher. Funny, real, and powerfully moving, this exceptional novel will leave both students and teachers with a lot to think about.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about Rachel's decision not to speak after Tommy's death. Why does she make that decision? Does it make sense to you? Families can also discuss the kids' decision not to report that they don't have a teacher. Are their intentions good? What would you have done?
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AGE
This book i think is good for all ages.
i think that this book is very good because it teaches me and kids a lesson that you need to work together to do anything . i really like this book so does my class.
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Kid, 10 years old
September 22, 2011
AGE
the best book ever
ists great im doing a report on it
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AGE
Best Fiction Book EVER!
Ok! Well...I am 13 years old and I read the book. It is not bad for kids. The only thing is that the kids are on there own, so it might give a idea or two. I loved the book and I am working on a book report on it! I don't ever really laugh or cry in a book, but this oe made me cry because I laughed so hard. Which is really awesome. This would have to be the best fiction book I have ever read! You should so read it and let your kids read it. If you have any kids.
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AGE
all about rachel white and tommy feathers
that it a good book for kids
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AGE
VERY engaging. My students couldn't put it down!
Great book that encourages kids to think about WHY they make the decisions they do. Also addresses taking responsibility for ones actions and how to join together as a force to follow through and determine right from wrong. Also has some situations in which you can talk about peer pressure to do things that you know aren't right.
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AGE
Character is how you act when nobody's watching
Great book. Gives a great message about character. Also teaches a bit about grieving death.
A day in the life of kids with no teacher.
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Kid, 12 years old
March 11, 2012
AGE
From my point of view. (11 Year Old)
I think that this book is a good book for kids it shows a positive message I am an 11 year old avanced reader with alot of brain that I dont use. This book helps me open up a little bit and show another side of me. this book is not at all violent,sexual,has un-appropriate launguage,and bad at all its a really good book you should buy. THANK YOU!
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| Author: | Ralph Fletcher |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | School |
| Publisher: | Clarion Books |
| Publication date: | September 21, 1998 |
| Number of pages: | 144 |
| Hardcover price: | $15.00 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 10 - 14 |
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