Paperback New Release – May 3, 2011
I am a huge Grisham fan. I love his storylines and most of his characters, but I will agree with others that sometimes he rambles a little bit. Not so in this novel. I think he stays on point and gives a satisfying addition to a seldom-used genre for children’s literature.
This is a perfect novel for about 4th grade and up to help kids understand the judicial system and what all those funny words mean and who is who and what their job is. I thought the idea of a 13 year old boy with both parents who are attorneys was a good setting to have Theo as interested and knowledgeable as he was. The drawback to his character is that he was too perfect. Straight A student, visits his eccentric uncle every Monday, etc. The court case he is involved in was interesting and I had no idea how it would turn out. I thought the ending was just right.
I am anxious to see how this does in my library.
Review by Terrie Bishop, Academy Park Elementary School Media Center
Rating: ★★★★✩ (4 Stars)
Interest Level: Grades 4 and Up
Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer by John Grisham was great. I was so pleased because I really worried that it would be too bogged down with lawyer stuff. Interestingly enough, Mr. Grisham’s daughter is a 5th grade teacher and he got the students in her class involved as the story evolved. I had a parent whose opinion I trust read it. She enjoyed it and already has the 2nd book on hold. One of my 5th grade girls read it in two days. So, a great success.
Comment from Kim Jensen, Diamond Ridge Elementary School Media Center
Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer
Written by John Grisham
Penguin / Puffin Books
304 pages
Release Date: May 3, 2011 (paperback)
ISBN: 9780142428696 (hardcover); 9780142417225 (paperback)
This sounds like a book I need to order when I get some more money next year. I appreciate the reviews and will add it to my to-read list.
As a Grisham fan I was excited to read this Young Adult Grisham book and was not disappointed. The story kept me turning the pages and was very appropriate for teens. It handled difficult topics openly, easily leading to discussion.