Parents' Guide to

The Dunderheads

By Patricia Tauzer, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 7+

Teamwork trumps an evil teacher; too scary for preschoolers.

Book Paul Fleischman Friendship 2009
The Dunderheads Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

Community Reviews

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age 6+

Based on 1 parent review

protectivemama
protectivemama Parent of 4 and 6-year-old
December 15, 2009
age 6+

Great book

My 7 year old loved it! I emphasized the strengths of each kid and she took great interest in the illustrations, concentrating on the details.
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

The teacher thinks she has a classroom full of misfits. The students know they have a tyrant for a teacher. When she makes one mistake too many, the kids all pool their individual talents to help fix the problem and show the teacher that a bunch of "dunderheads" can be successful.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (1):
Kids say: Not yet rated

Older kids will love this story about how a motley group of students pool their unique talents to finally overcome their domineering, evil teacher. The aptly-named Miss Breakbone is not someone to tangle with, and she has "no eye for talent," and gives herself a gold star every time she makes a student cry. Of course, each of her students, whom she has labeled as "dunderheads" has a talent, of sorts: Einstein is the brain, Pencil can draw from memory, Clips builds amazing things with paper clips, and so on. Together they are more than a match for Miss Breakbone's evil maneuverings.

Not only is the story rewarding, in that the innocent underdogs conquer the bully, but the writing is also entertaining and the artwork is packed with intriguing detail that will capture any reader's interest. However, because of the creepy and effectively evil illustrations, the electric chair, the growling ferocious dogs, the spikes and chains, and the less-than-favorable impression of teachers, this book is best for less sensitive readers.

The watercolor, pen, and ink cartooning is unique and expressive. The mean, domineering teacher is creepy, scary, and very evil-looking. The kids each have unique style, and the gadgets are intriguing.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about Miss Breakbone. How did the artist draw her, and why do you think he made her so big, angular, and ugly? Look especially at her mouth. What kind of look would you say she has?

  • How many mistakes did Miss Breakbone make? Which one finally pushed the kids into action? How would you have felt if you were Junkyard? Are teachers really ever this mean?

  • How did each kid get his nickname? What would your nickname be if you could choose one? Why? What does it show about you?

  • How did teamwork help the kids get the best of Miss Breakbone? Have you ever worked together with your friends to make something right?

Book Details

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