Reviews

There's no doubt about it--Fudge Hatcher is a sweet little guy, and fans of Blume's Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing and Superfudge will cheer his return. Here the five-year-old extrovert continues to annoy his older brother, narrator Peter, whose gruff demeanor hides a very big heart. Blume's latest fast-pitched, funny novel further develops the relationship between these two endearing brothers as the Hatchers and their New York City neighbors, the Tubmans, share a house in Maine for a three-week vacation. Sheila Tubman, Peter's nemesis in Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great , returns in fine form, appearing for breakfast each morning in her fuzzy pink robe and bunny slippers--just one of Sheila's many habits driving Peter crazy and inspiring numerous diverting scenes. In fact, the colorful antics of all members of the two families--as well as a handful of the locals they meet--make reading these pages a treat. Ages 8-12. (Sept.)

Gr 2-5-- The Tubmans and the Hatchers return in this latest chronicle of the hilarious escapades of Fudge, Pete, and Tootsie Hatcher and Sheila ``Queen of Cooties'' Tubman. Their parents decide to spend their summer vacation in the woods of Maine right next door to each other--but ``next door'' turns out to be in the same house. Fast-paced mayhem becomes the order of the day as children, adults (including Grandma Hatcher and Grandpa Tubman), and assorted pets find themselves in daily (hourly?) predicaments. Not to be outdone in the madcap pace, Grandma and Grandpa announce their intention to be married. The story concludes with the solemn pact between Pete and Sheila that even though they'll be related, they will always hate each other. The story is filled with humor, and the upbeat mood is sustained at a hectic pace from first page to last. The uncomplicated plot is developed smoothly with just the right doses of surprise and laughter to keep readers turning the pages. Characters are credible, and never lose their identities. Be forewarned--fun between the covers of the bright red dust jacket means multiple copies for purchase. --Mary Lou Budd, Milford South Elementary School, OH