Kelsey Green, Reading Queen

Gr 2–4—Third-grader Kelsey Green reads constantly-even during math class. When the principal calls for a reading contest, Kelsey's obsession with books increases and her competitive spirit kicks in-but not in positive ways. First, she becomes suspicious that another student is lying about how many books he's read because she can't bear to think about coming in second. Next, she takes on tutoring a student struggling with his reading skills. Her motivation is to push him to read in order to further their class goal: to read the most books and be the winners of the pizza party. After some missteps and struggles, however, Kelsey comes to realize that she loves reading for reading's sake-not just to win a contest. She further realizes that if she can help someone improve his skills, that is reward enough. This is the first of a promising series. As she did in Fractions = Trouble! (2011), 7 x 9 = Trouble (2002, both Farrar), and other titles, Mills incorporates realistic school situations with everyday challenges with which kids can identify. Kelsey's reading list makes a great bibliography and a way to engage readers. Occasional full-page drawings enhance the story. Sure to be enjoyed by fans of Clementine, Ivy and Bean, and Judy Moody.—Tina Martin, Arlington Heights Memorial Library, IL