Review: Mason Dixon: Fourth-Grade Disasters by Claudia Mills

Mason Dixon: Fourth-Grade Disasters by Claudia Mills. A Mason Dixon Story.

Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: November 2011
List Price: $12.99
ISBN-13: 9780375868740

Review: Fourth Grade, New Year, Disaster. Mason Dixon: Fourth Grade Disasters, written by Claudia Mills and illustrated by Guy Francis, is the second book in the Mason Dixon series. The series' character is the one and only, Mason Dixon.

Mason Dixon: Fourth Grade Disasters is about a boy named Mason Dixon, who is a fourth grade student who has one main problem to deal with, The Plainfield Platters. His mom always says he has a beautiful voice and he should join. But although Mason does not want to join, at least he is accompanied by his enthusiastic friend Brody! As he joins The Plainfield Platters, he has to deal with many tough decisions to get through, HIS way. While he is so confused about what to do about one issue, another unexpected event occurs to him. But, with the help of people around him such as Nora and his mother, and his clever mind and brain functions, he is able to solve some problems. As you read through this story, you also get to know about all of the characters, such as Dog, Mason, Brody, Dunk, Mason's mom, Nora, Coach Joe, and Mrs. Morengo in an interesting way.

I enjoyed Mason Dixon: Fourth Grade Disasters. But the only part that I disliked is that I wanted to know more. Instead of extending the story, it seemed to just be cut off all of a sudden. If it was longer, it would have hooked me on even more. Otherwise, this was a great book. I adored mostly the fact that Mason never gives up. Even though he is faced with many grueling trials, he still copes with them. This teaches people that no matter what, there is always hope, which is such an important message for young readers. I also admired the elaboration of the characters. Instead of just adding in general features, Mills actually puts in specific features, such as their personality. The way she elaborates, I could picture the different character'-s' roles in the story. Overall, Fourth Grade Disasters deserves 4.5 out of 5 stars. If you like stories that have many problems and then a resolution, then this is the book for you.

Review written by Anjan (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Mason Dixon: Fourth-Grade Disasters for this review.

Have you read Mason Dixon: Fourth-Grade Disasters? How would you rate it?