EllRay Jakes Walks the Plank!

Gr 1–3—Small but spunky third grader EllRay Jakes is in charge of the class goldfish over school vacation, but his little sister accidentally kills the fish by dumping too much food into the bowl. He's upset but willing to take the blame to protect his sister. Fortunately, his teacher Miss Sanchez is understanding, even when EllRay forgets to bring back her copy of Treasure Island. Later when he's toughening out playground and classroom skirmishes with pushy classmates, especially Cynthia, the principal and his teacher are compassionate. When Cynthia tries to goad EllRay into taking the blame for their teacher's spilled water bottle, he wavers but decides to tell the truth. While EllRay makes mistakes, he's happy at the end of a tough week at school when he's chosen to buy the replacement fish. Corey Allen narrates with an appropriately squeaky voice and gives the title character appealing gumption. The humorous work is filled with classic elementary school personalities and realistic adults who convey worthwhile values. Primary grade listeners, boys and girls, will find a friend in EllRay.—Barbara Wysocki, retired from Cora J. Belden Library, Rocky Hill, CT