Module 5: Clementine

Pennypacker, Sara. 2006. Clementine. Illus. by Marla Frazee. Scholastic: New York. ISBN: 978-0-545-03619-1.

Sara Pennypacker introduces readers to a new third grade heroine, Clementine. Clementine has a knack for getting herself into troublesome situations and making them worse. Her week long misadventures lead her to believe that her parents are having a party to celebrate finally getting rid of her. In a touching moment, she realizes how much she is loved by her family and friends. Clementine’s overall positive demeanor is not marred by her mistakes and choices. She is determined and inventive. In her own unique way, she is always trying to make situations better. Ms. Pennypacker’s straightforward writing and authentic dialogue creates pleasant and plausible characters. The story is enhanced by Ms. Frazee’s ink drawings that are embedded in the text. Clementine’s emotion is translated beautifully in these simple illustrations. Within her family, Clementine is not known as the “easy one”, but this book is an “easy one” to enjoy and read again.