Otto Runs For President - Hardcover

Wells, Rosemary

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0545037220 ISBN 13: 9780545037228

Publisher: Scholastic Press, 2008

Synopsis

A hilarous and satisfying election story from renowned author-illustrator Rosemary Wells.

It's election time at Barkadelphia School, and popular kids Tiffany and Charles are already in the running. Unfortunately, they care a bit more about winning than they do about their voters. Before long, little Otto thows his hat in the ring; he doesn't have a flashy campaign, but he does have a big heart and a great idea -- he polls the students and asks them what THEY want for the school. When the ballots are finally counted, Otto wins by a landslide -- but he learns that while it's hard work running for president, it's even harder work BEING president.

About this title

About the Author:

ROSEMARY WELLS is the award-winning creator of numerous books for children, including My Shining Star and Read to Your Bunny, and has given readers such unforgettable characters as Max and Ruby, Noisy Nora, and Yoko. Rosemary Wells lives in Greenwich, Connecticut.

From School Library Journal:

PreSchool-Grade 1—For a while it looks as though Otto doesn't stand a chance in the three-way race for president of Barkadelphia School. Tiffany's a cute and popular poodle who promises "More Mirrors in the Girls' Room!" And the platform of athletic bulldog Charles includes "Skateboards in the Halls!" Otto takes a different approach, though, and asks his canine classmates for their ideas to improve the school, such as healthy cafeteria foods and a homework help line. While the other two ramp up their rivalry with mudslinging, self-promotion, and parent-funded events, Otto's strategy of listening to everyone, "even the kindergartners," results in victory. Wells's skillful drawings highlight a host of appealing characters who are doglike in appearance, but clearly human in their actions. Individuals have distinct personalities. Most pages are neatly framed by borders decorated with paw prints, ballots, and other images related to the story. The author pokes gentle fun at election excesses to contrast her positive message of community and inclusiveness. Tiffany attracts other female poodles and Charles's all-male supporters all come from the bigger dog breeds, while Otto's good-hearted campaign reaches both genders and all types of dog. The satisfying conclusion demonstrates how a school election can lead to worthwhile change and be fun at the same time.—Steven Engelfried, Multnomah County Library, OR
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About this edition

• Publisher: Scholastic Press
• Publication date: 2008
• ISBN 10: 0545037220
• ISBN 13: 9780545037228
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 32