The Boy Who Failed Show and Tell

Popular children’s book author Jordan Sonnenblick provides an often-hilarious account of his year as a “shrimpy, nervous fourth grader” on Staten Island in the late 1970s. Also included are flashbacks to formative moments from his younger years, including teaching himself to swim at the local Jewish Community Center. Funny and anecdotal, the book includes lots of sports, drum lessons, fun pranks, and the various adventures of his pet garter snake. Amusing illustrations match the tone of this entertaining memoir about a kid who finds hope and humor even when life in fourth grade isn’t easy.