Yours Turly, Shirley (Apple Paperbacks) - Softcover

Martin, Ann M.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0590428098 ISBN 13: 9780590428095

Publisher: Scholastic Paperbacks, 1990

Synopsis

Shirley, a fourth-grader with dyslexia, struggles with her feelings of inferiority as she compares herself to her intellectually gifted older brother and newly adopted Vietnamese sister

About this title

From School Library Journal

Grade 3-5 This book truly defines mediocrity. The story is about fourth-grade Shirley Basini, who suffers from dyslexia, has a brilliant older brother, is a disappointment to her parents, and suddenly acquires an adopted Vietnamese sister who, in addition to being smart, is only slightly younger. Readers do come to know and understand Shirley somewhat, but the other characters are as realistic as paper dolls. They remain completely in the background except when they come into direct contact with Shirley. The family is totally insensitive to their adoptive daughter, simply telling her what her new name will be, never asking her real name or anything about her culture. Shirley's dyslexia is treated superficially, the teacher simply stating that if she'd pay attention and try harder, she could do much better. Martin has filled the book with potentially vital, exciting, touching, and funny situations, but the story fails to deliver. Nancy P. Reeder, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, Columbia,
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Publishers Weekly

Shirley Basini is dreading fourth gradeshe is dyslexic and if she doesn't do well this year, she will have to stay back. Worse yet, her new teacher is strict and doesn't let her horse around. When Shirley's adopted sister Jacki arrives from Vietnam, Shirley is thrilled to help her learn English and teach her about America. But when Jacki is suddenly put in the advanced third grade class, Shirley feels jealous and threatened; she stops making an effort at school. An unexpected challenge to Jacki and Shirley's friendship, along with extra help from the school resource room, propel Shirley further ahead in her schoolwork than either she or her parents expected. Martin, the author of the recent Ten Kids, No Pets as well as Bummer Summer and other titles , tells Shirley's story in a straightforward, believable manner and creates an independent heroine who triumphs over her disability. Ages 8-12.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Scholastic Paperbacks
• Publication date: 1990
• ISBN 10: 0590428098
• ISBN 13: 9780590428095
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 133