Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key
by Jack Gantos
Harpercollins Childrens Books, 1999
Joey is a good-hearted, well-meaning child with ADHD and a single mom. He explains life at school, home, and in between in this 1st person narrative. He is just as perplexed by how things always seem to go wrong for him, and confused at how to control himself, as the adults are. I feel reading this book made me a better and more understanding teacher/librarian. As such, I often recommend it to other teachers. The intended audience is adolescents, though. Those with ADHD/ADD will find a kindred soul; those without will gain a better understanding of some of their peers. A Finalist of the National Book Award, this is a must read book for anyone that works or spends time with children.
Level: 4th and up
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