Critics' Opinion:
Readers' rating:
Published Jul 2010
224 pages
Genre: Literary Fiction
Publication Information
Summer’s finally here, and Derek Fallon is looking forward to pelting the UPS truck with water balloons, climbing onto the garage roof, and conducting silly investigations. But when his parents decide to send him to Learning Camp, Derek’s dreams of fun come to an end. Ever since he’s been labeled a 'reluctant reader,' his mom has pushed him to read 'real' books - something other than his beloved Calvin & Hobbes.
As Derek forges unexpected friendships and uncovers a family secret involving himself (in diapers! no less), he realizes that adventures and surprises are around the corner, complete with curve balls.
"Starred Review. A kinder, gentler Wimpy Kid with all the fun and more plot." - Kirkus Reviews
"My Life as a Book is a fabulous, fast-paced choice for reluctant and avid readers alike." - Bookpage
"Derek's concluding speech may strain credibility, but a relatable and fun format make this a smart choice for 'reluctant' readers--like Derek. Ages 9–12." - Publishers Weekly
"Cartoon drawings by the author's teenaged son decorate the margins and not only re-create Derek's illustrated vocabulary lists but also reduce the amount of text on each page, making the book more approachable for kids like Derek. Derek tells readers, 'If my life were a book, I'd have my own cool adventures.' It is, and he does." – Horn Book
This information about My Life as a Book was first featured
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Any "Author Information" displayed below reflects the author's biography at the time this particular book was published.
Janet Tashjian is the author of several novels, including Fault Line and The Gospel According to Larry, which was named a Best Book for Young Adults, a Notable Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies, a New York Public Library Best Book for the Teen Age, and a Bank Street College of Education Best Children's Book.
Tashjian lives in Los Angeles with her family.
Author Interview
Link to Janet Tashjian's Website
Name Pronunciation
Janet Tashjian: ta-jen (Armenian)
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