The Talented Clementine is a gem. Sara Pennypacker managed to create a character that feels like a real, frantic, messy third-grader rather than a 'written by an adult' version of a child.

If you have a kid who struggles with focus or feels like they don't quite fit the 'star student' mold, this book is basically a warm hug. It’s funny, it’s fast-paced, and it doesn't feel dated even though it’s nearly twenty years old. It’s the kind of book that reminds you why reading to your kids is actually fun.