The Flunking of Joshua T. Bates
Page 5
Sometimes the hardest thing in the world is believing in yourself
“Unusual, witty, and satisfying.”
—School Library Journal
“A humorous and immensely appealing story.”
—Kirkus Reviews
“Infused with humor and insight.”
—Publishers Weekly
Winner of 19 Children’s Choice Awards, including:
IRA-CBC Children’s Choice
Texas Bluebonnet Award
Pacific Northwest Young Reader’s Choice Award
Donuthead
by Sue Stauffacher
My name, if you must know, is Franklin Delano Donuthead.
Try saying that in a room full of fifth graders if you think names will never hurt you.
And the name is just the beginning. Life for Franklin Delano Donuthead is decidedly unsafe. Marvin Howerton, the school bully with big fists and a small brain, has it in for him. And no one in Franklin’s life—not classmates, teachers, or even his mom—seems to understand the importance of proper sanitation.
Then hygienically challenged Sarah Kervick transfers to Pelican View Elementary, and Franklin’s thoroughly disinfected world is turned upside down. In less than a week, Sarah draws this neatest of fifth graders into the messiest of friendships. Franklin might actually start enjoying himself. That is, if he can just shake the fear that Sarah has head lice.
“Touching, funny, and gloriously human.”
—Kirkus Reviews, Starred
“An appealing story with some memorable characters and a lot of heart.”—School Library Journal, Starred