Skunk Scout: Trade Novel Grade 5

by Reading

Teddy's idea of a good vacation is a triple-feature at the movie theater. So when his uncle invites him to go camping, he is more than a little reluctant. To make matters worse, his know-it-all little brother, Bobby, is coming, too. Teddy practices his camping skills in his Chinatown apartment and watches Wilderness Scout for tips, but nothing can prepare him for his meeting with Mother Nature. Soon Teddy, Bobby, and Uncle Curtis find themselves in the woods, sleeping on rocks, and battling raccoons, mosquitoes, and poison oak. Through it all, Teddy is determined to prove he is just as smart as his little brother. But the worst is yet to come. A hike leaves them lost in the woods-and is that a skunk coming down the path?

Genres: Realistic Fiction, Childrens

192 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Cheryl]

How is this not more popular? It's a quick, funny adventure about two boys and their uncle who just happen to be Chinese-American. It's #OwnVoices# multicultural diversity, and the references to Chinatown, traditions, etc. are not didactic but still satisfying. I think reluctant readers would like it, and so would avid book-learners. It would also be great as a family read-aloud, with interesting conversation prompts. For example, do you think Teddy will settle down with the store when he grows up? And why isn't everyone associated with the store already familiar with dry ice?\

Recommended to city kids, educators looking for 'diversity' reads, and anyone looking for a humorous heart-warmer.

[Rachel Spears]

I think the ending was lacking a little. We are going to read this in my class next week, going to have my advanced students re-write the ending.

[Mattine]

This is a cute story of two brothers and their uncle on a camping adventure that takes them out of their comfort zone. A good read for kiddos to learn about Chinese culture and the traditions within.

[Marinel]

It’s a great entertaining book for kids !

[Kimber Fowler]

no rating because it doesn't deserve one 😁

[Christa]

Teddy is not thrilled with the present his uncle gave him for his tenth birthday--a camping trip for him and his younger brother--but on his first outing away from San Francisco's Chinatown, Teddy learns some interesting facts about nature, about his uncle, and about himself. Little boys will definitely like the humorous mishaps in the book. I think girls will find some situations gross. The cover art will lure boys more over girls. The character’s strengths and weaknesses are revealed through humorous situations they encounter. Real, credible-main character well-rounded.

[Melissa Oliver]

Cute. Perfect for characterization skills.