Funny.
Smart.
Poignant.
The fifth grade students (and their families) are transformed in this novel...all because of Mr. Terupt. (Um, just guessing, but I think that's how the book got its name.)
Hands down, this is one of the best upper elementary/early middle school books I have read in a long time (except for The One and Only Ivan). The chapters are short, and they trade off points of view among the 7 main students in the book. (In fact, the way the story is written almost makes it seem like there are only 7 students in the class - that might be its only downfall.) The voice in the writing is superb, and it is specific to each student. And each student carries baggage. And each student needs some kind of reassurance and reconciliation...and...and...
All right, I'll stop there.
HOWEVER, if you teach in the 4th-6th grade range, you NEED to read this book. (And then, more importantly, pass it on to your colleagues and students.)
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