Laurie B. Friedman

I love the quirky illustrations -- it looks like a fun school day! But the text, oh the text. Page after page of no, no and no. The rules are negative - don't do this, don't do that. Instead of being endearing or silly, it feels heavy and sad. Not the feeling I want to share with students at the start of school!

Percy Isaac Gifford is ready to tell us his rules for going back-to-school. Only his rules tell us what NOT to do in school. Percy gives the reader his ten simple rules for going back to school and assures us that if these rules are followed, the act of going back-to-school will be a success.

Friedman’s delightful book gives children a fun heads-up as to what NOT to do when they are in school. Paired with Murfin’s colorful illustrations, Friedman’s rhythmic prose tells every child the show more best way to survive middle school. The rules are fun and interesting, while actually accurately depicting rules that teacher’s would appreciate students following, such as “Don’t sing too loud or stare” or my favorite rule, “Don’t slither on the floor!” A great must-read for those children entering school and feeling a little bit nervous, this book will definitely lighten the mood! show less

Murfin's whimsical, exaggerated illustrations immediately draw the reader into this back-to-school picture book with rules on what *not* to do to be successful in school. Sadly, Friedman's text feels as if it's been forced into a rhyming scheme early on, leading to a slower-than-expected start for this experienced, energetic writer. The text's emphasis on what NOT to do is inconsistent with current classroom behavior systems that are designed to promote good behavior rather than identify show more negative ones. Though dotted with whimsical moments -- "Don't swim in the fish tank" -- and possessing a gorgeous visual appeal, educators may find rules like "don't contradict the teacher" to be contrary to their goal of constructive teacher-student dialogue. In addition, the message that good behavior will result in an A+ is problematic for "good children" who struggle with learning disabilities. A noble effort that falls short for this educator, though she suspects it will be popular with more traditional teachers. (94) show less

This was a cute, humorous read in diary format. Being an adult reader I found April to be a bit of a brat at times, but I think 12 and 13 year-old girls will really relate to her.