The Classroom: The Epic Documentary of a Not-Yet-Epic Kid

Oh my stars - this book is way too cute. It took me right back to middle school and everything that accompanies it. I loved the fun characters that Robin Mellom has written, since they just make the story.

I love the unique format - there is normal prose, but interspersed among it, there are drawings and doodles from Trevor's notebook, and occasionally there are drawings from others like Molly. Additionally, there are little asides with all the different characters like you would have on a reality TV show - like the little snippets where they share what they were thinking. I loved that format!

Stephen Gilpin's drawings are awesome - they were a joy to see and they really enhanced the book.

I loved the tips from Marty - first off, what a fun guy. Too many of them were an epic fail, but it is the thought that counts. The whole cast of characters really is great - I love what each character brings to the table. Trevor is an oddball by most, yet he is so genuine, and for him starting in middle school, that is what really works for him.

I love the message Robin Mellom sends through the book as well. There is such a large assortment of characters, and they really all excel in different ways. There wasn't the stereotypical "perfect" person or anything that succeeds - everyone of all sorts does.

I totally recommend The Classroom for anyone looking for a good middle grade read. Between the great storyline and the AWESOME drawings, it will sure to be a hit for you.

Since Tyler worried about everything in elementary school obsessively, it's not a surprise that he is stressing about starting 7th grade. Matters are made worse when his friend Libby reinforces his belief that 8th graders are evil and out to get him, and encourages him to ask a girl to the upcoming fall dance. Told in a documentary style, this gives brief "interviews" with a variety of stock middle school character; the hulking 8th grader, the good looking popular boy, the girl obsessed with lip gloss, and a mysterious girl named Molly whom Trevor finds intriguing. Also present are a janitor who is zealous about his purview, a principal who is arbitrary and dithering, and various boring and quirky teachers.