The conclusion is satisfying and safe, but the journey is perilous and not always neat and tidy. Part Two is the aftermath of the incident, exploring how each child reacts to it and how the group learns from it. Part One of the book introduces the reader to each of these students and in so doing, with the structure of the multiple narrators, it enables the reader to see how the characters view themselves and each other. The “incident” is right in the middle of the book. This story is largely about empathy and compassion. Which is why I won’t be giving you a plot summary, I don’t want to spoil it for those who are going to read it.

This is one of those books that should be read by all, parents and students alike. This book is so special, I fear my review will not do it justice. The story is propelled towards one single incident, an accident involving the teacher and his students. There is Jessica, the new girl Alexia, the “frenemy” Luke, the brain Danielle, the pushover Anna, the quiet one Peter, the class clown and Jeffrey, who just hates school. The story is told from the point of view of seven of his students, with each chapter narrated by a different child. Terupt is the new teacher in fifth grade and he is not your typical rookie teacher. As a teacher, I want to be his colleague and as a parent, I would very much like him to teach my children. I think he must be a very special human being in order to draw such rich, deep characters in the students he writes about he has to really “get” kids. Halfway through this book I wanted to know all about this author. I know I am reading a terrific book when I crave information about the author.

Books like because of mr terupt