Parents' Guide to

Miss Nelson Is Missing

By Peter Lewis, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 4+

Top-notch tale of teacher from the dark side.

Book Harry Allard School 1977
Miss Nelson Is Missing Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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age 4+

Based on 1 parent review

Ezv2y8xX
Ezv2y8xX Parent of 2, 4 and 4-year-old
March 28, 2020
age 4+
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

Miss Nelson, a sweet and shrewd teacher who has to deal with a wild class of schoolkids, makes her winning picture-book debut. Harry Allard's wit and James Marshall's illustrations make this top-notch tale of the substitute teacher from the dark side a hilarious hit.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (2 ):

Allard delivers a crowd pleaser with his rowdy students and a substitute teacher that kids love to hate. His deadpan writing style underscores his comedy; school-age kids will be laughing out loud. Marshal's expressive and colorful pen, ink, and wash illustrations escalate silliness levels; he personifies mischievousness in the kids, kindness in Miss Nelson and vileness in Swamp.

The point that runs through the story -- that you ought to treat others with respect and consideration -- is clear yet tactfully unspoken. Along with the jokes, children seem to intuitively appreciate that the story could come true.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the characters in the story. Which are your favorite characters? How does the author make unlikable characters so funny?

Book Details

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