Review Detail

In this third book in the Mason Dixon series (Pet Disasters, 2011 and Fourth Grade Disasters, 2012), Mason is expanding his horizons even further. His best friend, Brady suggests that he play basketball, and his mother and father as very supportive of this, having read articles that playing sports is good for children. Mason isn't so sure, especially since his nemesis, Dunk, is on an opposing team. Mason's father is volunteered to coach the team even though he didn't play basketball himself, which leads to some interesting moments. Mason also has to deal with a new elderly neighbor who doesn't like Dog in her yard, as well as a school unit on Colonial Life that involves a lot of crafts and projects.

In the previous books, Mason was afraid of everything, but he is definitely coming into his own in fifth grade. I liked that he confronted his parents about whether or not they actually played on sports teams when they strongly suggest that he play basketball! He has become fond of Dog, even though he wasn't sure he liked animals at first, and is able to defend him to the Animal Control person. Even on the basketball court, Mason is able to learn the plays and do a decent job. It's good to see him make progress towards become more mature. I would love to see a book with Mason in the 6th grade!

The story line follows Mason through various events of fall, which is a popular way to present early middle grade plots. There's basketball, neighbor Mrs. Taylor, colonial crafts at school, and Thanksgiving, and all of these things come together nicely in the end. For fourth graders who are actually studying colonial times, all of the different craft projects (corn husk dolls, punched tin lanterns, sewing, etc.) might make them jealous, because there's so little time in classrooms to do those projects these days! Readers will know and appreciate the history surrounding them, which is a nice touch.

Summer is a great time for readers to get involved in series books, and Mills has several elementary series like Mason Dixon that are a great way to while away a rainy summer day!