Fabled Fifth Graders of Aesop Elementary School by Candace Fleming

Fleming, Candace, The Fabled Fifth Graders of Aesop Elementary School. Schwartz and Wade, 2010. Pgs. 176. Language: G, Violence: G, Sexual Content: G

The worst class in a long time at Aesop Elementary School, the fifth grade class are handfuls. No teacher dares take them on. Luckily, Mr. Jupiter, an eccentric world traveling man who sees the class as his newest adventure, has agreed to take this class on for the second year in a row. Filled with wisdom, cleverness, and ingenuity, Mr. Jupiter will need all of the above to get through to his class and make a difference in their lives. Will he succeed?

Filled with modernized versions of some of Aesop’s most famous lessons, this book entertains, delights, and instructs. A great book for fables units, but also a fun read by itself. The characters are entertaining. The plot flows well despite each chapter being short story-like. Readers who like fables, realistic fiction, and humorous books will enjoy reading this book. EL (4-6). ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Kira M, Youth Services Librarian, WHI Public Library.