Off the Shelf 0607- 21

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key
By Jack Gantos
© 1998

Ever feel like your world is out of control? You haven’t met Joey Pigza yet! Poor Joey – he drives everyone crazy with his antics…and he frustrates himself, as well. He really does try very hard to be good, but nothing seems to work – not even his medication for attention-deficit disorder. When Joey accidentally trips carrying scissors while running towards another student, the results are disastrous!

Reading this book is like living in the mind and body of a hyperactive child. Although Joey’s behavior is sometimes entertaining, it creates stress and frustration for not only his teachers, parent, and fellow students, but also for himself. There are many insights for those who might know of or work with children or adolescents with ADD. More importantly, the themes of identity, self-esteem, family, and love are universal.

My recommendation: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist