In the voices of a handful of very different fifth-grade students, Rob Buyea weavs a portrait of the kind of quietly influential teacher every kid needs in their life. I was instantly engaged by the simple, readable style of the book, and found myself connecting to all of the different characters. The story was thought-provoking, and I found myself still mulling over it after I’d closed the book—always a good sign!

Because of Mr. Terupt is highly recommended for middle-grade students (probably ages 10 and up), and for adults with an interest in children’s issues or children’s literature.

This book was sent to Compass Book Ratings for review by Random House

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language: None

Violence/Gore: Kids engage in a snowball fight. A character is hurt when hit by a ball of ice thrown by another character.

Sex/Nudity: References are made to one character being the result of a teen pregnancy.

Mature Subject Matter:

Comas/serious health problems, family issues

Alcohol / Drug Use:

None