THE LAST HOLIDAY CONCERT

Few authors capture school situations as convincingly as Andrew Clements. In his latest novel, sixth-grader Hart is faced with the challenge of marshaling his chorus mates through preparation for the school concert. Consensus, fairness, and ownership, as seen from both the teachers' and the students' points of view, take on new meaning. Fred Berman narrates at a fast clip, capturing the flavor of a multifaceted classroom and the speed at which sixth-graders move. He voices teacher Mr. Meinert's frustration, as well as Hart's alternating enthusiasm and disappointment as he hones his leadership skills. A.R. 2005 ALA Notable Recording © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 05]