Synopses & Reviews
Richard can't wait to show off his flat-ground Ollies at a friend's birthday party at the skate park, but a note home from his teacher threatens to ruin his plans. He really meant to finish his assignment on howler monkeys, but he just got... distracted. If only he could focus on his schoolwork, he wouldn't get into this kind of trouble! Can Richard manage to put off getting the note signed (and facing the consequences) until after the party, or will the deception make things even worse?
Nikki and Deja fans and their male peers are sure to recognize themselves and their classmates in this humorous school story.
Review
"This is a consistently fun read....a much needed story in which African American boys can see themselves visually and textually reflected in a positive light, completely free of the usual tropes of multicultural literature." Booklist
Review
"The warm details of Richard's African-American family are tempered by the realism of life with a bunch of boisterous boys....readers who haven't discovered the Carver School kids will find this a satisfying entry point." Bulletin
Review
"Lots of kids will recognize themselves in this book...and teachers and librarians will be happy to have a series to recommend that stars a realistic, likable boy of color." Horn Book Magazine
Review
"A welcome series addition that emphasizes familiarity instead of difference and treats its message with an affectionately light hand." Kirkus Reviews
About the Author
Karen English is a Coretta Scott King Honor Award-winner and the author of the Nikki and Deja and The Carver Chronicles series. Her novels have been praised for their accessible writing, authentic characters, and satisfying storylines. She is a former elementary school teacher and lives in Los Angeles, California.
Laura Freeman has illustrated several books for young readers. Her artwork has also appeared in publications such as the The New York Times and New York magazine. Laura grew up in New York City, and now lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with her husband and two children.