The School Story, by Andrew Clements

age group:8 and up

rating:8.5

Ever think about writing and publishing a book? Imagine seeing your own book on the shelves of Barnes and Noble, with the words "written by:"...you!

Natalie Nelson is twelve and has written a book so good that her best friend, Zoe, is certain that it should be published. Secretly, they make a plan to use a fake name and publish it. The plan circles around their goal to have Natalie's mom to edit her book, without her mom ever realizing who the real author is.

I am a fan of all of Andrew Clement's books, and this one is definitely my favorite. It has a depth that most kids books don't have. The reader gets to know the characters very well, and cannot help but love them. The story explores the tenderness between fathers and their daughters, and between two best friends. I experienced what people would do for those they love. "The School Story" motivated me to work on my own writing. It quietly inspires readers to reach for the stars.

My only objection to the book is in the ending. I found the writing a bit hasty in the last chapter. Throughout the book, there were so many moments with a nice mood. The ending had the same atmosphere, but it was unnecessarily rushed.