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BLUEFISH

Blue fish
Author Information
Author's Last Name: 
Schmatz
Author's First Name: 
Pat
Publisher: 
Candlewick
Publication Date: 
2011
2013 Nomination (not yet selected): 

In his new school, eighth grader Travis hides the fact that he can't read but his secret is discovered by mouthy Velveeta and a perceptive and sympathetic teacher who sets him on the road to literacy with a Kjelgaard book. Everyone has secrets in this moving story: Travis's grandfather doesn't tell him what happened to his dog; Velveeta won't reveal where she actually lives. References and parallels to THE BOOK THIEF abound, and Travis's pejorative nickname comes from the Dr. Seuss book. This is a book about reading both for those who struggle and those who love it. Ten to fourteen.

While missing his dog and trying to protect his secret, Travis avoids other students at his despicable new school. But the flamboyant Velveeta notices and asks many questions. When she discovers Travis’s motives, the two become something each desperately needs--friends. 

Comments

Meeting Notes for December

by ladamson - 12/12/2011 - 12:54pm

Meeting Notes for December 9

Positive Comments:
  • The well-drawn characters help readers relate to them.
  • Since the ending is not particularly positive, it does not fill the “after-school special” category.
  • The inevitable ending adds to the story.
  • Having an African-American character who is an integral part of the story without needing cultural reference is vitalizing.
  • The role of The Book Thief in this book adds an extra layer of interest.
Observations
  • This book would be a good read-aloud.
  • Readers need to know what being illiterate would be like.
  • Although the characters are the same age in this and Schmidt’s books, each offers a different view.
  •  
Concerns:
  • The glorification of the teacher and the librarian seems a pander a bit.
  • The grandfather’s ability to just stop drinking seems unrealistic even though he has a strong catalyst, and not drinking is not easy for him.

Meeting Notes for November

by ladamson - 11/23/2011 - 6:12pm

Meeting Notes for November 18

  • Needs more readers.