The tales behind the "Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing"

Childhood simplicity. Judy Blume’s Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing is nothing more than a simple story about the misadventures of a little boy, and his little brother. I used this book as a remediation tool for teaching some reluctant readers this summer, and the explosion of excitement about reading that resulted in my students was probably equaled to the recognition this book received when it was first published.

Judy Blume you say?? No, I don’t think so. Yes, I know, I had many misgivings about her work back when she was first published. But, now as I read her from a different point of view, I have gained a whole new perspective, and respect for her work. It was, years back, that her bold approach to controversial topics was somewhat brassy, and parents didn’t want their children exposed to “real life” topics. I was a young teacher then, and I looked to my “more experienced” peers for guidance. We didn’t allow our students to read Judy Blume.

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing is about a young man named Peter. He is about 10 years old, and lives with his parents and younger brother. Then live in a high-rise apartment near Central Park, in New York City. Peter is a quiet, sensible kid, who is very serious about everything he does. He is always very respectful, tolerant, and honest. His younger brother, Fudge, who at this time is about 2 years old, is the direct opposite of Peter. Fudge seems to attract trouble, simply by waking up in the morning.

The story begins as Peter brings home a turtle that he proudly won at a party. He is anxious to share his prize with his mom, and momentarily forgets about Fudge. Fudge is equally excited to have a turtle in the house. He wants desperately to play with the turtle, but it is put into a bowl and kept in Peter’s room. Throughout the story, Fudge attempts to play with the turtle.

The story is very humorous. I think that is one of the reasons my students liked it. They are about Peter’s age, and can relate to having a younger sibling “get into their way”. Fudge’s antics also kept them reading. Of particular fame, is the chapter when Fudge decided he no longer wanted to eat like a human being, but chose instead to eat like a dog. The parents are mortified, and finally the dad takes a stand, telling Fudge to “eat his cereal, or wear it”. Fudge chooses to wear it, and the dad promptly marches him into the bathroom, places him in the tub, and pours the bowl of cereal on his head. In the mind of a 9 or 10 year old, this is great stuff!!!! As a parent, I identified with the dad, getting a 2 year old to eat can be exhausting!!!!

Each chapter of the book is filled with a funny escapade about Fudge. Peter is sometimes embarrassed and annoyed at his little brother. Reading about the ways Peter is able to overcome his anger, and still accept Fudge as an inquisitive toddler kept the interest of my students. The book is written in short chapters, and has some pen and ink drawings. I would call it a transition chapter book. It is written for a young audience, 8-10 year olds. It has all the physical characteristics of a chapter book, yet the drawings and organization of a book written for young children.

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing is meant to be a light, relaxed book to be read by kids. The characters are very compelling, and the adventures are equally amusing. Boys and girls alike have enjoyed Fudge and his inquisitive ways. It can be read independently, or can be used as a book that a parent might want to read with their child. One of the boys I taught this summer was a reluctant reader. He is 9 years old, and reading was not one of is favorite things to do. After reading ”Tales”, he was so enthralled with Fudge, that he read not onlyTales of a Fourth Grade Nothing , but all the sequels too. He now wants to write to Judy Blume to see if she will write more on the adventures of Fudge! This book gave him a jump-start into reading.

I recommend this book highly. It is an easy book to read over a long holiday from school, or just one to relax with at night. The other books in the series, Otherwise known as Sheila the Great, Super Fudge, and Fudgeamania. chronicle the adventures of Fudge and Peter as they grow up.

I think now, that these stories are destined to become traditions. I don’t know if I would classify them as classical stories, but they are truly a “must read” for young kids. The books are easy reading, light and compelling. Good stories for young readers!!!