The Shiniest Rock of All

Patterson, Nancy Ruth

ISBN 10: 1440116202 / ISBN 13: 9781440116209

Published by iUniverse (edition ), 2009

About this Item

The item might be beaten up but readable. May contain markings or highlighting, as well as stains, bent corners, or any other major defect, but the text is not obscured in any way.

Seller Inventory # 1440116202-7-1-13

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Shiniest Rock of All
• Publisher: iUniverse (edition )
• Publication Date: 2009
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1440116202
• ISBN 13: 9781440116209
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: Fair

About this title

Synopsis

Mischievous Robert Morris Reynolds can't even say his name right. His "r's" come out as "w's"-until a wise speech therapist promises him a special rock when he can pronounce the word "rock" properly. Robert's struggle to earn that rock leads him to become aware of other's feelings.

"Characterizations are superb; even minor characters are portrayed with depth and roundness unusual in such a brief, accessible novel." The Horn Book

"An amiable slice-of-life story. Economically told and often touching, this is a good portrait of a good- and brave- boy." The Bulletin of the Center of Children's Literature

From School Library Journal

Grade 3-4-- Robert Morris Reynolds is a lively, mischievous fourth grader who hates his name (because he can't say his r's), haughty Ashley Alston, and his crabby neighbor Mrs. Snead. Although his speech problem does not prevent Robert from playing numerous practical jokes on Mrs. Snead or from mercilessly teasing Ashley at school, he never gets away with much. When he pushes Ashley too far, she razzes him about his speech, and the boy recognizes his need for tutorial help. Ms. Cooper loans him the shiniest rock Robert has ever seen with the understanding that it will be his when he can say his r's correctly. That rock gives him the confidence to get through the tough times that follow. The title and cover do little to inform readers about the theme or plot and may not attract the intended audience. Once into the book, however, children will enjoy Robert's escapades and sympathize with his difficulty and his fear of being different. The frequent use of dialogue will also appeal, especially the children's conversations, which are more realistic than the adults' stilted, wooden speech. The plot is fast moving but becomes disjointed midway with the introduction of a distracting subplot. Unfortunately, with little--if any--fiction about children with speech impediments for this level reader, there is a need for this adequate but forgettable story. --Maggie McEwen, formerly at Coffin Elem . School, Brunswick, ME
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