When Kaline's father inexplicably leaves home, the rules disappear, too. Kaline's mother is loving, but lax. She doesn't set the timer when he brushes his teeth, the DO NOT WALK ON GRASS signs look like a wild animal trampled them, and his new school uniform is so big it seems like it was made for another kid. Then, when the car breaks down, Kaline's mother asks their neighbor, Mr. Putnaminski, to give Kaline a ride to school- completely ignoring the very obvious fact that Mr. P. is a stranger! Black-and-white art.
Summary Kaline Klattermaster does not know where his father has gone. His distracted mother—who refuses to tell Kaline where his father is—does not bother to straighten the table legs parallel to the floor squares or make sure the table settings are exactly two inches apart, or line up anything on a long list of Things Lined Up Properly according to Kaline’s father. Kaline is sure things will go to CHAOS and PANGEMONIA. Third grade is a problem, as well. Kaline’s dad would have been sure the school uniform fit perfectly. He might also have been able to protect Kaline from the three huge bullies in Kaline’s class. With his world falling to pieces, Kaline imagines a place of safety—a perfect tree house with two older brothers and one hundred puppies, while in the real world he befriends elderly Mr. Putnaminski, who knows what it is like to lose a father.
Topics Imagination. Fractions. Neighbors. Parents. Rules. Meals. Obsessive behavior. First day of school. School uniforms. Car problems. Bullies. Nightmares. Kindness. Homework. Tree houses. Brothers. Puppies. Comic strips. Knitting. Fear of strangers. Standing up for yourself. Divorce. Old houses. Basements. Models. Turtle shells. Reunions.
SRC Level 6.700000
SRC Points 6.000000
Lexile 990L
Trim Size 5" x 7 1/4"
Language English
JLG Release Date Mar 2008
Minimum grade 3
Maximum grade 5
Reading level Elementary
Format Print
Intermediate Readers (Grades 3-5)
Intermediate Readers
Intermediate Readers (Grades 3-5)
For Grades 3-5
This collection includes 12 carefully selected books each year, offering a wide variety of captivating stories and informative nonfiction. While the focus is primarily on text, some novels may include illustrations to support comprehension and engagement.