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Troublemaker
There’s a folder in Principal Kelling’s office that’s as thick as a phonebook and it’s growing daily. It’s filled with the incident reports of every time Clayton Hensley broke the rules. There’s the minor stuff like running in the hallways and not being where he was suppose to be when he was supposed to be there. But then there are also reports that show Clay’s own brand of troublemaking, like the most recent addition: the art teacher has said that the class should spend the period drawing anything they want and Clay decides to be extra “creative” and draw a spot-on portrait of Principal Kellings…as a donkey.
It’s a pretty funny joke, but really, Clay is coming to realize that the biggest joke of all may be on him. When his big brother, Mitchell, gets in some serious trouble, Clay decides to change his own mischief making ways…but he can’t seem to shake his reputation as a troublemaker.
From the master of the school story comes a book about the fine line between good-humored mischief and dangerous behavior and how everyday choices can close or open doors.
141 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
121 people are currently reading
983 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Clements
136 books2,209 followersI was born in Camden, New Jersey in 1949 and lived in Oaklyn and Cherry Hill until the middle of sixth grade. Then we moved to Springfield, Illinois. My parents were avid readers and they gave that love of books and reading to me and to all my brothers and sisters. I didn’t think about being a writer at all back then, but I did love to read. I'm certain there's a link between reading good books and becoming a writer. I don't know a single writer who wasn’t a reader first.
Before moving to Illinois, and even afterwards, our family spent summers at a cabin on a lake in Maine. There was no TV there, no phone, no doorbell—and email wasn’t even invented. All day there was time to swim and fish and mess around outside, and every night, there was time to read. I know those quiet summers helped me begin to think like a writer.
During my senior year at Springfield High School my English teacher handed back a poem I’d written. Two things were amazing about that paper. First, I’d gotten an A—a rare event in this teacher’s class. And she’d also written in large, scrawly red writing, “Andrew—this poem is so funny. This should be published!”
That praise sent me off to Northwestern University feeling like I was a pretty good writer, and occasionally professors there also encouraged me and complimented the essays I was required to write as a literature major. But I didn’t write much on my own—just some poetry now and then. I learned to play guitar and began writing songs, but again, only when I felt like it. Writing felt like hard work—something that’s still true today.
After the songwriting came my first job in publishing. I worked for a small publisher who specialized in how-to books, the kind of books that have photos with informative captions below each one. The book in which my name first appeared in print is called A Country Christmas Treasury. I’d built a number of the projects featured in the book, and I was listed as one of the “craftspeople”on the acknowlegements page, in tiny, tiny type.
In 1990 I began trying to write a story about a boy who makes up a new word. That book eventually became my first novel, Frindle, published in 1996, and you can read the whole story of how it developed on another web site, frindle.com. Frindle became popular, more popular than any of my books before or since—at least so far. And it had the eventual effect of turning me into a full-time writer.
I’ve learned that I need time and a quiet place to think and write. These days, I spend a lot of my time sitting in a small shed about seventy feet from my back door at our home in Massachusetts. There’s a woodstove in there for the cold winters, and an air conditioner for the hot summers. There’s a desk and chair, and I carry a laptop computer back and forth. But there’s no TV, no phone, no doorbell, no email. And the woodstove and the pine board walls make the place smell just like that cabin in Maine where I spent my earliest summers.
Sometimes kids ask how I've been able to write so many books. The answer is simple: one word at a time. Which is a good lesson, I think. You don't have to do everything at once. You don't have to know how every story is going to end. You just have to take that next step, look for that next idea, write that next word. And growing up, it's the same way. We just have to go to that next class, read that next chapter, help that next person. You simply have to do that next good thing, and before you know it, you're living a good life.
Before moving to Illinois, and even afterwards, our family spent summers at a cabin on a lake in Maine. There was no TV there, no phone, no doorbell—and email wasn’t even invented. All day there was time to swim and fish and mess around outside, and every night, there was time to read. I know those quiet summers helped me begin to think like a writer.
During my senior year at Springfield High School my English teacher handed back a poem I’d written. Two things were amazing about that paper. First, I’d gotten an A—a rare event in this teacher’s class. And she’d also written in large, scrawly red writing, “Andrew—this poem is so funny. This should be published!”
That praise sent me off to Northwestern University feeling like I was a pretty good writer, and occasionally professors there also encouraged me and complimented the essays I was required to write as a literature major. But I didn’t write much on my own—just some poetry now and then. I learned to play guitar and began writing songs, but again, only when I felt like it. Writing felt like hard work—something that’s still true today.
After the songwriting came my first job in publishing. I worked for a small publisher who specialized in how-to books, the kind of books that have photos with informative captions below each one. The book in which my name first appeared in print is called A Country Christmas Treasury. I’d built a number of the projects featured in the book, and I was listed as one of the “craftspeople”on the acknowlegements page, in tiny, tiny type.
In 1990 I began trying to write a story about a boy who makes up a new word. That book eventually became my first novel, Frindle, published in 1996, and you can read the whole story of how it developed on another web site, frindle.com. Frindle became popular, more popular than any of my books before or since—at least so far. And it had the eventual effect of turning me into a full-time writer.
I’ve learned that I need time and a quiet place to think and write. These days, I spend a lot of my time sitting in a small shed about seventy feet from my back door at our home in Massachusetts. There’s a woodstove in there for the cold winters, and an air conditioner for the hot summers. There’s a desk and chair, and I carry a laptop computer back and forth. But there’s no TV, no phone, no doorbell, no email. And the woodstove and the pine board walls make the place smell just like that cabin in Maine where I spent my earliest summers.
Sometimes kids ask how I've been able to write so many books. The answer is simple: one word at a time. Which is a good lesson, I think. You don't have to do everything at once. You don't have to know how every story is going to end. You just have to take that next step, look for that next idea, write that next word. And growing up, it's the same way. We just have to go to that next class, read that next chapter, help that next person. You simply have to do that next good thing, and before you know it, you're living a good life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 284 reviews
October 31, 2014
Whenever the kiddos and I finish a book, we always ask the same question: Okay, now how many stars should Mommy give it on Goodreads? This time we were divided like no other time. I said 3, they said 5! So we are settling on 4 stars, though no party here is leaving satisfied. The kids really liked this one. They were really, really into it. I thought it was a bit awkward and in need of editing. I've read some of the reviews and it seems that a lot of Andrew Clements fans agree that this is his weakest offering. I think we'll try another by Clements soon. The kids certainly are on board!
November 1, 2014
This book bugged me at the beginning - Clay was so cocky and irritating to me. Obviously the book is about his personal reform, but you still have to hear about his attitude at the beginning. Just FYI, there is the repeated use of the word "jackass" and an attitude of "I don't care" about destructive behavior from the main character and his friends. This book might be especially appropriate if you have a kid who HAS these attitude and behavior issues, as long as you make sure he/she reads the book all the way to the end. :) The book does show, overall, that one needs to consider how OTHERS view the behavior you think is fun. I did like the book by the end.
May 22, 2024
Clay Hensley is an impressive character. Reminiscent of some of the best work produced by the great Barbara Park during her years as a novelist, the construction of Clay's personality is inspired at every turn. He's hilarious, with a faultless ability to assess the risk/reward of any situation and a smart enough tongue that he hardly ever gets in trouble for his shenanigans unless he wants to, and even then he's good at talking himself out of any real trouble. Like his brother, Mitch, before him, Clay has been a troublemaking prodigy since his first days of school, making mischief and talking circles of absurdist logic around the school's authority figures until they can no longer tell if punishment is appropriate or not. Clay revels in the strength of the reputation he's earned over the years, and why shouldn't he? By now, entering sixth grade, Clay is one of the top dogs of his class in terms of popularity. While he never fails for long to become involved in some kind of trouble, Clay's roguery is always of a playful nature, mostly poking fun at those in charge while eliciting laughs from his peers. Sixth grade is set to be his best school year so far, as popularity among the student body begins to rise in importance and having a reputation as a fun-loving guy can be the best way of making new friends of either gender.
It may seem as if it's the picture Clay draws that changes everything, but it really isn't. With the way things were going, Clay's confrontation with his older brother was inevitable, and it just happens to be the picture that brings it about. Clay is quite the rising artist in addition to his skill as a prankster, but when he draws an unflattering portrait of the school principal to lampoon him in retaliation for a disciplinary remark he made to Clay a few days earlier, he gets in trouble again. This is standard fare for Clay; what he did isn't bad enough for any serious punishment, just a stern talking-to and a few admonitions that future misbehavior will lead to steeper consequences. Clay almost seems to enjoy the "interrogation" in the principal's office, though not nearly as much as does the receptionist, Mrs. Ormin. It's been her duty (privilege?) to take notes on every meeting between the irascible Clay and the principal since the boy started school, and the most entertaining parts of her day always come courtesy of Clay's verbal high jinks.
Since Clay's brother, now almost twenty, was a lot like Clay when he was in school, Clay looks forward to informing him all about the derogatory picture he drew of the school principal, and how much fun it was to get a free shot at the man in charge. What a surprise it is to Clay to find that his brother's short stint in jail has changed his outlook completely, and the former rascal in whose footsteps Clay has been happy to follow wants no part of that old lifestyle. Mitch has seen prison; he knows what can be the end result when one's tricks and pranks escalate until they culminate in illegal activities; he knows what it means to be afraid all the time and have one's freedom taken away, and he's not going to let that happen to him ever again. That's not the future he wants for his younger brother, either, and he lets Clay know it in no uncertain terms. Things with Mitch sure are different now, Clay sees, and his brother's intensity surprises him more than a little. Yet Clay has always listened to what Mitch had to tell him in the past; why should this time be any different?
Mitch has genuinely turned around his own life, and he's not going to let Clay slip through the cracks of the system and get into really big trouble, either, if he can help it. Using milder versions of the rigid disciplinary techniques favored in jail, Mitch tries to reform his charmingly impish brother practically overnight, and in doing so goes overboard in some respects, restricting Clay's avenues of personal expression in ways that aren't likely to be helpful to the cause. But Clay knows Mitch means business, and his brother's fear of going down the wrong path has had its affect on Clay. Maybe now really is the time for him to tone down his troublemaking activities, he thinks, to filter out the bad while keeping the lovable spontaneousness of his personality and giving others the chance to like and respect him for who he is, not just the high-profile pranks he commits.
Clay's resolve to take Mitch's regiment of self-improvement seriously won't be easy to maintain. The closer he sticks to the new plan, however, the better the chance that when an anonymous act of vandalism is traced back to Clay, his denial of guilt will be believed by those closest to him: his family, friends and even one or two others whose opinions Clay had never previously valued. Maybe he really can make this new lifestyle of a kinder, less tricksterly Clay stick for good, and he won't have to worry about ever facing the bad things that caused Mitch to finally make changes in his own life. Maybe Clay's turnaround has happened just in time to give him a new start without all the baggage of the past, able to make his way in junior high and beyond without the "troublemaker" label attached to his name. If anyone is smart and capable enough to manage such a transformation, it's Clay Hensley.
Andrew Clements does a nice job of bringing this story around full circle by the end, tying up all the loose ends meaningfully and memorably. Clay is someone I know I won't soon forget, a lavishly talented and delightfully scampish boy who can be just as sensitive and sincere as he can be hilarious, the kind of kid everyone should be lucky enough to have for a friend. Because of Clay's presence in the book, I would certainly consider two and a half stars for Troublemaker. I had a good time with this story, and I thank Andrew Clements for writing it.
It may seem as if it's the picture Clay draws that changes everything, but it really isn't. With the way things were going, Clay's confrontation with his older brother was inevitable, and it just happens to be the picture that brings it about. Clay is quite the rising artist in addition to his skill as a prankster, but when he draws an unflattering portrait of the school principal to lampoon him in retaliation for a disciplinary remark he made to Clay a few days earlier, he gets in trouble again. This is standard fare for Clay; what he did isn't bad enough for any serious punishment, just a stern talking-to and a few admonitions that future misbehavior will lead to steeper consequences. Clay almost seems to enjoy the "interrogation" in the principal's office, though not nearly as much as does the receptionist, Mrs. Ormin. It's been her duty (privilege?) to take notes on every meeting between the irascible Clay and the principal since the boy started school, and the most entertaining parts of her day always come courtesy of Clay's verbal high jinks.
Since Clay's brother, now almost twenty, was a lot like Clay when he was in school, Clay looks forward to informing him all about the derogatory picture he drew of the school principal, and how much fun it was to get a free shot at the man in charge. What a surprise it is to Clay to find that his brother's short stint in jail has changed his outlook completely, and the former rascal in whose footsteps Clay has been happy to follow wants no part of that old lifestyle. Mitch has seen prison; he knows what can be the end result when one's tricks and pranks escalate until they culminate in illegal activities; he knows what it means to be afraid all the time and have one's freedom taken away, and he's not going to let that happen to him ever again. That's not the future he wants for his younger brother, either, and he lets Clay know it in no uncertain terms. Things with Mitch sure are different now, Clay sees, and his brother's intensity surprises him more than a little. Yet Clay has always listened to what Mitch had to tell him in the past; why should this time be any different?
Mitch has genuinely turned around his own life, and he's not going to let Clay slip through the cracks of the system and get into really big trouble, either, if he can help it. Using milder versions of the rigid disciplinary techniques favored in jail, Mitch tries to reform his charmingly impish brother practically overnight, and in doing so goes overboard in some respects, restricting Clay's avenues of personal expression in ways that aren't likely to be helpful to the cause. But Clay knows Mitch means business, and his brother's fear of going down the wrong path has had its affect on Clay. Maybe now really is the time for him to tone down his troublemaking activities, he thinks, to filter out the bad while keeping the lovable spontaneousness of his personality and giving others the chance to like and respect him for who he is, not just the high-profile pranks he commits.
Clay's resolve to take Mitch's regiment of self-improvement seriously won't be easy to maintain. The closer he sticks to the new plan, however, the better the chance that when an anonymous act of vandalism is traced back to Clay, his denial of guilt will be believed by those closest to him: his family, friends and even one or two others whose opinions Clay had never previously valued. Maybe he really can make this new lifestyle of a kinder, less tricksterly Clay stick for good, and he won't have to worry about ever facing the bad things that caused Mitch to finally make changes in his own life. Maybe Clay's turnaround has happened just in time to give him a new start without all the baggage of the past, able to make his way in junior high and beyond without the "troublemaker" label attached to his name. If anyone is smart and capable enough to manage such a transformation, it's Clay Hensley.
Andrew Clements does a nice job of bringing this story around full circle by the end, tying up all the loose ends meaningfully and memorably. Clay is someone I know I won't soon forget, a lavishly talented and delightfully scampish boy who can be just as sensitive and sincere as he can be hilarious, the kind of kid everyone should be lucky enough to have for a friend. Because of Clay's presence in the book, I would certainly consider two and a half stars for Troublemaker. I had a good time with this story, and I thank Andrew Clements for writing it.
February 22, 2012
WARNING!!! CONTAINS SPOILERS :
In this book, there are one sixth grader boy called "Clay Hensley" has many troubles in his Truman Elementary school. His record book has filled with troubles that he made. He likes to joke with his friends. During the art class, he drew his principal like a donkey and he went to principal's office again. When he came back to home, his big brother decided to change Clay to a good student, and Clay promised to his big brother that he will going to be a good student. However, he forgot his promise and he threw foods to lower grader, just because it's fun. Clay was regretting about that happening, but teacher sent him to the principal's office, again. Clay told to his principal that he will never do this stuffs again, and he don't want to make his brother feel disappoint, and principal accepted. In the Halloween, Clay wasn't hanging out with his best friends, and just stay in the home rest of the day. That night, cops were visit Clay's house and told to his mother and big brother that they are looking for Clay. What the cops were saying was Someone threw the eggs and draw donkey on principal's house. Clay explained to his family that he didn't go outside whole day except for school. Clay decided meet principal after a day. He met his principal and principal apologize to Clay that he doubt him. After few weeks, Clay won the art contest with his new donkey drawing. He was a trouble maker, but no more.
For the main conflict in the story, the cops were visit Clay's house because of principal's misunderstanding. Someone threw eggs and drew donkey on principal's house, and he thought Clay did it. However, Clay was staying in his home whole day, so Clay decided to go to principal's house and meet him. After the day, Clay met his principal and had conversation with him and got apologize from the principal.
I liked the whole story because I saw the one boy who is trouble maker, started to reminds his self and tried to fix himself. Also his big brother was helping Clay to be a appropriate and good student. It was so impressive.
In this book, there are one sixth grader boy called "Clay Hensley" has many troubles in his Truman Elementary school. His record book has filled with troubles that he made. He likes to joke with his friends. During the art class, he drew his principal like a donkey and he went to principal's office again. When he came back to home, his big brother decided to change Clay to a good student, and Clay promised to his big brother that he will going to be a good student. However, he forgot his promise and he threw foods to lower grader, just because it's fun. Clay was regretting about that happening, but teacher sent him to the principal's office, again. Clay told to his principal that he will never do this stuffs again, and he don't want to make his brother feel disappoint, and principal accepted. In the Halloween, Clay wasn't hanging out with his best friends, and just stay in the home rest of the day. That night, cops were visit Clay's house and told to his mother and big brother that they are looking for Clay. What the cops were saying was Someone threw the eggs and draw donkey on principal's house. Clay explained to his family that he didn't go outside whole day except for school. Clay decided meet principal after a day. He met his principal and principal apologize to Clay that he doubt him. After few weeks, Clay won the art contest with his new donkey drawing. He was a trouble maker, but no more.
For the main conflict in the story, the cops were visit Clay's house because of principal's misunderstanding. Someone threw eggs and drew donkey on principal's house, and he thought Clay did it. However, Clay was staying in his home whole day, so Clay decided to go to principal's house and meet him. After the day, Clay met his principal and had conversation with him and got apologize from the principal.
I liked the whole story because I saw the one boy who is trouble maker, started to reminds his self and tried to fix himself. Also his big brother was helping Clay to be a appropriate and good student. It was so impressive.
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October 28, 2013 The book, Trouble Maker by Andrew Clements, is about a boy named Clay Hensley He is always getting in trouble for something almost every day. This time, he drew a drawing of a donkey, and he put glasses and a mustache on it so it would look like his principal. When Mr. Kelling (the principal) saw it, he was upset. If he did something bad again, he'd get in ten times bigger trouble. So his bigger brother, Mitch, made him change completely because Mitch had just gotten out of jail and didn't want the same thing to happen to his little brother. He changed his clothes, cut his hair, got good grades, and never got in trouble for the rest of the year. He promised his bigger brother and that was that. On Halloween, he stayed in his room all night long. Around 10 o'clock, the cops came to the door and said that Mr. Kelling's house had eggs thrown all over his house, and that his house was tagged. On his front door, there was a donkey with glasses and a mustache graffitied on with red and black paint. But Clay said he didn't do it. The theme of the story is that people can change dramatically over time.
This book isn't very long. It is only about 200 pages. The age group is mostly for kids from 10-12 years old. They would probably find it the most interesting out of all the kids. It is told in third person, and is a funny fiction book. To me, Trouble Maker was funny and full of potential. Andrew Clements is a funny author. Most of his books are about school. I have read two other books by him (Frindle and Lunch Money), and they are both about school and hilarious. Trouble Maker and Lunch Money are both about a kid who gets in trouble, and about that kid also having one enemy and a couple friends. They are also both popular kids. On the other hand, his most famous book is Frindle. And it is my second favorite but Trouble Maker is my personal favorite.
Before I read this book, I didn't think people could change that much. But this book made me realize that people can make dramatic changes when they have the right people to push you and persuade you too. He started as a trouble maker, and as the book progressed on, he became more mature and focused about school and drawing. He became more sophisticated basically. This is the first time that I have read or even heard about such a dramatic change. The last change I heard was that my nephew fractured his leg.
In a way, Trouble Maker is kind of emotional. It is very funny, but stays on task and is also serious at the same time throughout the book, which in my opinion, is hard to do. It made my dad cry at the end of the book. Andrew Clements is defininently in my top 3 favorite authors. He is not creative like Dr. Suess, but is creative in his own way. He is very clever with his book topics. He made school sound fun. I think that if you like funny, serious, and mystery, you should read this book.
Charlie Faragher
10/27/2013
RATING: ***** (5 stars)
This book isn't very long. It is only about 200 pages. The age group is mostly for kids from 10-12 years old. They would probably find it the most interesting out of all the kids. It is told in third person, and is a funny fiction book. To me, Trouble Maker was funny and full of potential. Andrew Clements is a funny author. Most of his books are about school. I have read two other books by him (Frindle and Lunch Money), and they are both about school and hilarious. Trouble Maker and Lunch Money are both about a kid who gets in trouble, and about that kid also having one enemy and a couple friends. They are also both popular kids. On the other hand, his most famous book is Frindle. And it is my second favorite but Trouble Maker is my personal favorite.
Before I read this book, I didn't think people could change that much. But this book made me realize that people can make dramatic changes when they have the right people to push you and persuade you too. He started as a trouble maker, and as the book progressed on, he became more mature and focused about school and drawing. He became more sophisticated basically. This is the first time that I have read or even heard about such a dramatic change. The last change I heard was that my nephew fractured his leg.
In a way, Trouble Maker is kind of emotional. It is very funny, but stays on task and is also serious at the same time throughout the book, which in my opinion, is hard to do. It made my dad cry at the end of the book. Andrew Clements is defininently in my top 3 favorite authors. He is not creative like Dr. Suess, but is creative in his own way. He is very clever with his book topics. He made school sound fun. I think that if you like funny, serious, and mystery, you should read this book.
Charlie Faragher
10/27/2013
RATING: ***** (5 stars)
January 27, 2012
Trouble-Maker
Author: Andrew Clements
Review by ; Dominique
Andrew Clements the author of Trouble-Maker was born on May 29, 1949, in Camden, New Jersey. As a child, Andrew enjoyed summers at a lakeside cabin in Mane, there he spent his days swimming, fishing, and in the evening reading books. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Northwestern University and a Masters of Arts in Elementary Education from National Louis University. Andrew worked as a teacher sharing his love of reading with Elementary, Middle, and High school students. His first book was the award winning Frindle, which won sixteen state book awards.
Andrew Clement book Trouble-Maker is about a boy named Clay Hensley who is always getting in trouble and one day he got sent to the principal’s office for getting in to trouble in his art class. When he gets there the principal and him talk about his behavior and how he can improve it. The next day Clay brings his phone and takes a picture of the drawing he made in the art class. The drawing is a picture of the principal with a horse head, he thinks it’s funny and so do his classmates, Clay calls it a jackass. A few days later his brother comes home from jail. Clay shows him the picture. His brother doesn’t think it’s funny instead he hates the way he acted and doesn’t want clay to be like him. He makes Clay change his personality even his wardrobe. Halloween comes and clays brother doesn’t let him go out trick-or-treating. Instead of staying at home Clay sneaks out of the window. Before the night is over the police come to his house and thinks he drew the picture on the principals door.
I think Andrew Clements wrote an amazing story. I liked the way he wrote the book. I liked the wording Andrew used in this book. My favorite part was the little case in the book. I like similar genres. I thought the story was funny and well written. I don’t really relate to this story. The only thing I relate to is I like to have fun like clay does.
I think kids my age would enjoy reading this book. I think they would enjoy reading the case like I did. Kids would see that Andrew described the setting and characters very well. My favorite character is clay because he makes everything fun. My least favorite character is his friends. I don’t like them because they try to get Clay in trouble when he doesn’t want to get into trouble. I think kids would like to see who drew the picture on the principal’s door. I know I would. It’s very shocking.
I would recommend this book to anyone I know. Andrew really makes the book come alive. A part that really comes alive is where clay rides his bike by the principals’ house and sees him painting his door white to cover the drawing. Finally I think that anyone who reads this book will love it the way I do.
Author: Andrew Clements
Review by ; Dominique
Andrew Clements the author of Trouble-Maker was born on May 29, 1949, in Camden, New Jersey. As a child, Andrew enjoyed summers at a lakeside cabin in Mane, there he spent his days swimming, fishing, and in the evening reading books. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Northwestern University and a Masters of Arts in Elementary Education from National Louis University. Andrew worked as a teacher sharing his love of reading with Elementary, Middle, and High school students. His first book was the award winning Frindle, which won sixteen state book awards.
Andrew Clement book Trouble-Maker is about a boy named Clay Hensley who is always getting in trouble and one day he got sent to the principal’s office for getting in to trouble in his art class. When he gets there the principal and him talk about his behavior and how he can improve it. The next day Clay brings his phone and takes a picture of the drawing he made in the art class. The drawing is a picture of the principal with a horse head, he thinks it’s funny and so do his classmates, Clay calls it a jackass. A few days later his brother comes home from jail. Clay shows him the picture. His brother doesn’t think it’s funny instead he hates the way he acted and doesn’t want clay to be like him. He makes Clay change his personality even his wardrobe. Halloween comes and clays brother doesn’t let him go out trick-or-treating. Instead of staying at home Clay sneaks out of the window. Before the night is over the police come to his house and thinks he drew the picture on the principals door.
I think Andrew Clements wrote an amazing story. I liked the way he wrote the book. I liked the wording Andrew used in this book. My favorite part was the little case in the book. I like similar genres. I thought the story was funny and well written. I don’t really relate to this story. The only thing I relate to is I like to have fun like clay does.
I think kids my age would enjoy reading this book. I think they would enjoy reading the case like I did. Kids would see that Andrew described the setting and characters very well. My favorite character is clay because he makes everything fun. My least favorite character is his friends. I don’t like them because they try to get Clay in trouble when he doesn’t want to get into trouble. I think kids would like to see who drew the picture on the principal’s door. I know I would. It’s very shocking.
I would recommend this book to anyone I know. Andrew really makes the book come alive. A part that really comes alive is where clay rides his bike by the principals’ house and sees him painting his door white to cover the drawing. Finally I think that anyone who reads this book will love it the way I do.
July 26, 2011
One of the things that I especially love about working at an elementary school is the variety of children I get to meet. This can be both enjoyable and incredibly frustrating, but never boring, and I learn as much from them as they do from me (hopefully). Clay is one of those students who is more than capable of doing well in school, but chooses not to. In Clay's case, his admiration for his older brother, leads him into mischief, including the donkey drawing of his principal. When Mitchell returns home changed, Clay is naturally confused and angry, he doesn't see any need to change. But as Clay struggles to change and slowly realizes that one's reputation is not easily repaired, he starts to realize that his choices have consequences, sometimes serious ones.
Now, I admit, the story does seem a bit oversimplified. In real life, changing one's behavior can be and often is very challenging and doesn't happen over night. But I think Clements makes his point, that the choices we make follow us as we travel down life's road. I can think of more than a few students whose behavior could lead them down some very painful roads and it makes me sad. The writing is good, typical Clements, and the illustrations provide a nice compliment. Recommended for readers who like a good school story.
Now, I admit, the story does seem a bit oversimplified. In real life, changing one's behavior can be and often is very challenging and doesn't happen over night. But I think Clements makes his point, that the choices we make follow us as we travel down life's road. I can think of more than a few students whose behavior could lead them down some very painful roads and it makes me sad. The writing is good, typical Clements, and the illustrations provide a nice compliment. Recommended for readers who like a good school story.
June 2, 2011
Clay is a troublemaker. He doesn't pull pranks to be mean or because he's angry, but because his older brother was a prankster and Clay's following in his footsteps. In fact, when Clay uses his time in art class to create a hilarious picture of the school's principal as a jackass, he can't wait to show Mitch and tell him the story of what happened. But Mitch is, for the first time, unimpressed by Clay's prank. Just home from a 30-day jail sentence, Mitch knows it's time for him and Clay to turn their acts around. Mitch makes Clay promise not to pull any more pranks and to start working harder in school. But when someone vandalizes the principal's house on Halloween, all fingers point to Clay. Can he prove his innocence?
While I like the subject of this book, it's not one of my favorites of Clements'. The whole story is slight and quick and wraps up way too easily. Clay barely has any trouble switching gears and I found the pat ending a bit hard to buy. This might make an excellent choice for certain spirited children who might be heading down a bad path (or driving you crazy). Its slim page count will up the appeal for reluctant or high-low readers, but otherwise I'd skip it and pick up Frindle, No Talking, The School Story, or The Last Holiday Concert (my favorites).
While I like the subject of this book, it's not one of my favorites of Clements'. The whole story is slight and quick and wraps up way too easily. Clay barely has any trouble switching gears and I found the pat ending a bit hard to buy. This might make an excellent choice for certain spirited children who might be heading down a bad path (or driving you crazy). Its slim page count will up the appeal for reluctant or high-low readers, but otherwise I'd skip it and pick up Frindle, No Talking, The School Story, or The Last Holiday Concert (my favorites).
May 15, 2018
6th grade book group. Easy and quick read. Thought it was a little too easy for 6th grade and lacking but in the end had a good message.
October 3, 2011
Normally I love Clements, but this book has a preachy edge with little to leaven it. Has he been reading the Berenstain Bears books lately?
July 3, 2017
This book talks about a boy who loves making trouble. He loves to make fun of people, not bullying them, just having fun. But when his older brother got into serious trouble and went to prison, he told his younger brother,Clayton Hensley, the troublemaker, that he should change his ways and become a better person. Clayton Hensley agreed to stay out of trouble, but with his friends nagging him to do stuff his brother didn't want him to do, and opportunities the students give Clayton, can he keep his promise to his brother? or will he break it and keep causing trouble?
read the book to find out!
read the book to find out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2025
I read this one to my kids. There is heavy use of the word jackass so I had to explain to the kids not to use that word 😆 but we enjoyed this one a lot. The epilogue made my teacher heart cry. I think I'll buy a copy for our classroom libraries because this storyline of choosing to make better choices for yourself and the effect of your decisions on others is exactly what I hope for many of my students.
April 3, 2023
This was one of the funniest books I've ever read. I listened to it on a road trip, and it was a whole family favorite. It showed immense levels of humor, while at the same time showing change and maturity, which is a good thing to see. I overall really enjoyed it, and would highly recommend! However, this may not be as fun of a read for more advanced mature readers, but I would say it was a good family audiobook for a road trip. Great book.
January 17, 2022
Olivia read on her own and rated it 4 stars.
September 11, 2017
I enjoy Clements' books for kids...fun read aloud and kids doing amazing things.
November 30, 2019
Have you ever wanted to get into trouble on purpose ? Well in this story Trouble Maker, Clay Hensley wants to impress his big brother Mitch. I don't have an older brother so I don't know what Clay was thinking in following the wrong choices his brother made that got him into jail. To Clay's surprise when Mitch found out Clay's wrong doings Mitch took it upon himself to change the way Clay felt the need to get into trouble. I like this story because the reader can see the growth in Clay's actions and mood from beginning to end.
February 23, 2012
Troublemaker Review
The usual pattern of having a child in either a middle or elementary school with a problem of some sort, is Andrew Clement's usual suit. This is evident once again, in Andrew Clements somewhat recent book, “Troublemaker”.
The book begins with Clay, who is the protagonist. Clay is a sixth grader who is quite mischievous. Clay wants to see how many times he can go to the principal's office, and he has quite a reputation in school. Clay has a huge folder at the principal's office spanning from kindergarten to the sixth grade. Clay acts as a troublemaker to become like Mitch, his older brother, who was also a prankster. Mitch was sent to jail for a thirty day sentence, which changes him. Upon seeing Clay's crud behavior, Mitch tries to change him, and guide him off the path that he once followed. Clay's change does not come easy, as he has to make up for a few years worth of trust and respect from various individuals around him, including his principal.
This book seemed enticing because I am an enormous fan of Andrew Clements. Andrew Clements has a special way of crafting characters which are deemed likeable. The story's plot was somewhat different from Clement's usual plots. Usually, Clement's plots involve a girl starting her own school newspaper or a boy trying to direct a holiday concert, among many things. The book shows the change that all of must go through and from an angle is like a coming of age novel. The change that Clay must go under is not easy, and at times we all experience a change of perspective. This particular book of Andrew Clements is fascinating because the protagonists in his earlier novels, don't change as much as Clay. Clay's character was refreshing because many of Clement's protagonists aren't troublemakers or mischievous. The constant danger that Clay faced, as he had to decide whether to stay out of trouble or go back to his old ways, was amazing to follow as a reader.
Although “Troublemaker”, is deemed as a child's book, the book is perfect for readers of all ages. Any of Andrew Clements books, especially this one, is easily relate able to any audience. Ultimately, “Troublemaker”, is about redemption and change. At times we must change and change isn't easy. Clements depicts the frustrations of change and exemplifies it on a simpler level, by crafting Clay. Clay is a sixth grader and change is quite hard for him, as it is for us. Yet Clements shows the rewards that come with changing for your own betterment. In Clay's case it was earning the trust of those around him, yet the concept of change can be applied to anyone's life. The book is a great read for audiences of all ages, as are all of Andrew Clement's fine and inspirational works.
The usual pattern of having a child in either a middle or elementary school with a problem of some sort, is Andrew Clement's usual suit. This is evident once again, in Andrew Clements somewhat recent book, “Troublemaker”.
The book begins with Clay, who is the protagonist. Clay is a sixth grader who is quite mischievous. Clay wants to see how many times he can go to the principal's office, and he has quite a reputation in school. Clay has a huge folder at the principal's office spanning from kindergarten to the sixth grade. Clay acts as a troublemaker to become like Mitch, his older brother, who was also a prankster. Mitch was sent to jail for a thirty day sentence, which changes him. Upon seeing Clay's crud behavior, Mitch tries to change him, and guide him off the path that he once followed. Clay's change does not come easy, as he has to make up for a few years worth of trust and respect from various individuals around him, including his principal.
This book seemed enticing because I am an enormous fan of Andrew Clements. Andrew Clements has a special way of crafting characters which are deemed likeable. The story's plot was somewhat different from Clement's usual plots. Usually, Clement's plots involve a girl starting her own school newspaper or a boy trying to direct a holiday concert, among many things. The book shows the change that all of must go through and from an angle is like a coming of age novel. The change that Clay must go under is not easy, and at times we all experience a change of perspective. This particular book of Andrew Clements is fascinating because the protagonists in his earlier novels, don't change as much as Clay. Clay's character was refreshing because many of Clement's protagonists aren't troublemakers or mischievous. The constant danger that Clay faced, as he had to decide whether to stay out of trouble or go back to his old ways, was amazing to follow as a reader.
Although “Troublemaker”, is deemed as a child's book, the book is perfect for readers of all ages. Any of Andrew Clements books, especially this one, is easily relate able to any audience. Ultimately, “Troublemaker”, is about redemption and change. At times we must change and change isn't easy. Clements depicts the frustrations of change and exemplifies it on a simpler level, by crafting Clay. Clay is a sixth grader and change is quite hard for him, as it is for us. Yet Clements shows the rewards that come with changing for your own betterment. In Clay's case it was earning the trust of those around him, yet the concept of change can be applied to anyone's life. The book is a great read for audiences of all ages, as are all of Andrew Clement's fine and inspirational works.
August 5, 2011
From the inside flap:
“Once a troublemaker, always a troublemaker?
There’s a folder in Principal Kelling’s office that’s as thick as a phone book, and it’s growing daily. It’s filled with the incident reports for every time Clayton Hensley broke the rules. There’s the minor stuff, like running in the hallways and not being where he was supposed to be when he was supposed to be there. But then there are also reports, like the most recent addition, that show Clay’s own brand of troublemaking: The art teacher had said tha the class should spend the period drawing anything they wanted, and Clay decided to be extra “creative” by drawing a spot-on portrait of Principal Kelling . . . as a donkey.
It’s a pretty funny joke, but Clay is coming to realize that the biggest joke all may be on him. When his big brother, Mitchell, gets in some serious trouble, Clay decides to change his own mischief-making ways . . . but he can’t seem to shake his reputation as a troublemaker.”
Clay is one of those students “who is not living up to his potential.” He idolizes his older brother and wants to follow in his mischievous footsteps. At first I worried that this book might be a “bad influence” by giving kids ideas for making trouble (and it does, but nothing a mischievous child hasn’t already thought of). But it also sets a good, if someone simplistic example. Clay’s admiration for his older brother Mitch may get him into to trouble in the beginning, but it also puts him on the right path to making better choices.
What I liked about the book: It provides a good message in simple and humorous terms. The writing is typical Clements and will appeal to students and educators alike. Mark Elliott’s illustrations have a feel as though they were done by a talented student, which will have great appeal for readers.
What I don’t like about the story: The message is a little oversimplified. Though I think the simplicity of the story makes it perfect for its targeted audience it might also give the impression that changing one’s behavior can happen virtually overnight. It has the feel of an “after school special” where everything is solved in a couple of hours.
Overall this is a good read and I recommend it for Clements fans and anyone who wants to impart a message about how your choices tend to follow you.
Recommended for 3rd grade and up.
Mrs. Archer’s rating: 4 of 5
“Once a troublemaker, always a troublemaker?
There’s a folder in Principal Kelling’s office that’s as thick as a phone book, and it’s growing daily. It’s filled with the incident reports for every time Clayton Hensley broke the rules. There’s the minor stuff, like running in the hallways and not being where he was supposed to be when he was supposed to be there. But then there are also reports, like the most recent addition, that show Clay’s own brand of troublemaking: The art teacher had said tha the class should spend the period drawing anything they wanted, and Clay decided to be extra “creative” by drawing a spot-on portrait of Principal Kelling . . . as a donkey.
It’s a pretty funny joke, but Clay is coming to realize that the biggest joke all may be on him. When his big brother, Mitchell, gets in some serious trouble, Clay decides to change his own mischief-making ways . . . but he can’t seem to shake his reputation as a troublemaker.”
Clay is one of those students “who is not living up to his potential.” He idolizes his older brother and wants to follow in his mischievous footsteps. At first I worried that this book might be a “bad influence” by giving kids ideas for making trouble (and it does, but nothing a mischievous child hasn’t already thought of). But it also sets a good, if someone simplistic example. Clay’s admiration for his older brother Mitch may get him into to trouble in the beginning, but it also puts him on the right path to making better choices.
What I liked about the book: It provides a good message in simple and humorous terms. The writing is typical Clements and will appeal to students and educators alike. Mark Elliott’s illustrations have a feel as though they were done by a talented student, which will have great appeal for readers.
What I don’t like about the story: The message is a little oversimplified. Though I think the simplicity of the story makes it perfect for its targeted audience it might also give the impression that changing one’s behavior can happen virtually overnight. It has the feel of an “after school special” where everything is solved in a couple of hours.
Overall this is a good read and I recommend it for Clements fans and anyone who wants to impart a message about how your choices tend to follow you.
Recommended for 3rd grade and up.
Mrs. Archer’s rating: 4 of 5
June 11, 2012
The blurb on the back of this book said that "Andrew Clements sets the standard for the school story." I gotta say that I agree with that.
Clayton Hensley is a troublemaker. His latest stunt drawing a picture of a jackass that is a spot on caricature of his school principal. Clay cannot wait to tell his older brother tonight at dinner what he has done. You see Clay takes pride in being a troublemaker because it makes him like his older brother. But, Clay is in for a big surprise. His brother was recently released from jail and he turns Clay onto the path of the straight and narrow. Complete with a wardrobe change and haircut. Clay does not like that. Throw in his buddy from school who tries everything he can to get Clay to go back to his old ways and you have one heck of a school story.
Literary Quality:
Character: Clay's character evolves from a troublemaker to a good guy. This evolution is not easy and Clay has a lot of conflicts. I remembered Clay's story, but not Clay. He is barely a dynamic character and I find myself wondering if he can stay away from his trouble-making ways if something bad happens to him.
Plot: The plot seems a little to easy. Clay goes from bad boy to good guy because of his older brothers supervision. Clay doesn't really even want to be good. Only when he is accused of defacing the principals home does he show any remorse at the things he has done. Then the principal throws away all of the papers in his file that reflect poor behavior so he has a better chance in middle school.
Clarity/Style: The book is easy to read and easy to understand. Readers will want to find out what happens to Clay and Clements does an excellent job at taking us all on that journey.
Design/Format: Traditional chapter book
Acceptance: Kids will love Clay. One of the strongest aspects of this book is that I think kids who are viewed as a Troublemaker will be able to make a connection with Clay.
Clayton Hensley is a troublemaker. His latest stunt drawing a picture of a jackass that is a spot on caricature of his school principal. Clay cannot wait to tell his older brother tonight at dinner what he has done. You see Clay takes pride in being a troublemaker because it makes him like his older brother. But, Clay is in for a big surprise. His brother was recently released from jail and he turns Clay onto the path of the straight and narrow. Complete with a wardrobe change and haircut. Clay does not like that. Throw in his buddy from school who tries everything he can to get Clay to go back to his old ways and you have one heck of a school story.
Literary Quality:
Character: Clay's character evolves from a troublemaker to a good guy. This evolution is not easy and Clay has a lot of conflicts. I remembered Clay's story, but not Clay. He is barely a dynamic character and I find myself wondering if he can stay away from his trouble-making ways if something bad happens to him.
Plot: The plot seems a little to easy. Clay goes from bad boy to good guy because of his older brothers supervision. Clay doesn't really even want to be good. Only when he is accused of defacing the principals home does he show any remorse at the things he has done. Then the principal throws away all of the papers in his file that reflect poor behavior so he has a better chance in middle school.
Clarity/Style: The book is easy to read and easy to understand. Readers will want to find out what happens to Clay and Clements does an excellent job at taking us all on that journey.
Design/Format: Traditional chapter book
Acceptance: Kids will love Clay. One of the strongest aspects of this book is that I think kids who are viewed as a Troublemaker will be able to make a connection with Clay.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2016
This was the second book I have read by Andrew Clements in under a week. As soon as I finished Frindle I picked up this one to read. I really enjoyed Frindle but I loved this one. In many ways Clayton Hensley reminds me of myself. Not afraid to stand up to authority, not afraid to get in trouble, and not afraid to cross lines. But in this book after his older brother returns from a month in county jail things are about to change.
Shortly after our story begins Clayton promises his big brother he will work at cleaning up his act. But when you have a reputation for making trouble, often people will not take your changes at face value. Clayton goes from being one of the wild ruffian's in the school to asking to not be sent to the principal's office overnight. The other kids especially his best friend do not understand the change. But Clayton has given his word and as hard as it is he is working on making changes.
Soon Clayton finds himself examining what is doing, what he observers with new eyes. He finds he is thinking about other people's feelings, how the same would impact him. What it is like to be on the other side. Soon he realizes a lot of what he did for fun was really not fun for himself and especially others. These little examinations of conscience are helping him to make the changes he promised. And being a man of his word means a lot to him.
This was an incredible book to read. I just wish I had learned some of the lessons as young as Clayton did. I am really looking forward to reading this book with my kids over summer break. Another great book by a new found favorite author. An excellent read!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Andrew Clements.
Shortly after our story begins Clayton promises his big brother he will work at cleaning up his act. But when you have a reputation for making trouble, often people will not take your changes at face value. Clayton goes from being one of the wild ruffian's in the school to asking to not be sent to the principal's office overnight. The other kids especially his best friend do not understand the change. But Clayton has given his word and as hard as it is he is working on making changes.
Soon Clayton finds himself examining what is doing, what he observers with new eyes. He finds he is thinking about other people's feelings, how the same would impact him. What it is like to be on the other side. Soon he realizes a lot of what he did for fun was really not fun for himself and especially others. These little examinations of conscience are helping him to make the changes he promised. And being a man of his word means a lot to him.
This was an incredible book to read. I just wish I had learned some of the lessons as young as Clayton did. I am really looking forward to reading this book with my kids over summer break. Another great book by a new found favorite author. An excellent read!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Andrew Clements.
August 12, 2011
Ahhh, firstLane Smith, now Andrew Clements... we are bound and determined to get the word jackass beyond the would-be censors of children's literature.
Clements is in top form with this story of Clay Hensley, a sixth-grader who enjoys the challenge of seeing how many times he can be sent to the principal's office during his elementary career. Why? Because his brother was a prankster who was not afraid to get in trouble, and Clay wants to be just like Mitch. So when Clay draws a picture of a jackass with the unmistakeable features of the principal, he is so proud of his work that he makes sure that everyone in class sees it and that the art teacher has no choice but to send him to Mr. Kelling. Clay can't wait to tell Mitch about it. But Mitch, just home from spending 30 days in prison, is determined to keep his little brother from the mistakes he made. This new side of Mitch is a culture shock for Clay, but he slowly comes to respect the lessons Mitch is trying to teach him. While some of Clay's exchanges with friends ring a little too good to be true, Clements shows again that he is a master of life in the elementary school. The story is entertaining enough that kids won't mind a bit of a moral along with it.
Clements is in top form with this story of Clay Hensley, a sixth-grader who enjoys the challenge of seeing how many times he can be sent to the principal's office during his elementary career. Why? Because his brother was a prankster who was not afraid to get in trouble, and Clay wants to be just like Mitch. So when Clay draws a picture of a jackass with the unmistakeable features of the principal, he is so proud of his work that he makes sure that everyone in class sees it and that the art teacher has no choice but to send him to Mr. Kelling. Clay can't wait to tell Mitch about it. But Mitch, just home from spending 30 days in prison, is determined to keep his little brother from the mistakes he made. This new side of Mitch is a culture shock for Clay, but he slowly comes to respect the lessons Mitch is trying to teach him. While some of Clay's exchanges with friends ring a little too good to be true, Clements shows again that he is a master of life in the elementary school. The story is entertaining enough that kids won't mind a bit of a moral along with it.
September 4, 2011
Clements has recently been leavening his humourous school stories with more serious subjects or undercurrents. With Extra Credit, I thought he was only partially successful, but I think he succeeds pretty well with Trouble-Maker, the story of Clay Hensley - a sixth grade boy who has been making mischief pretty much since he was in kindergarten. Much of Clay's trouble making is of the just this side of serious sort, so he's not a candidate for juvie (yet). His world is rocked when his idolized 20 year old brother - a trouble maker of a more destructive sort - comes home from a 30-day stint in County Jail determined not to let his little brother follow him. Couple that with a mother who seems a bit overwhelmed and a father who seems to be almost encouraging his boys in their devilry, and you end up with a pretty realistic view of that kid who you often steer your own kids away from. The good thing? Clements deals with it all quite delicately, and though kids might get a lesson out of the book, they won't necessarily feel preached to. They'll (secretly) think Clay's antics are funny but recognize the mean in them and cheer for Clay to succeed. A solid effort for grades 4-6. Would make a good read aloud for 5th grade.
October 15, 2011
In quintessential Clements fashion, Trouble-Maker explores a typical middle-school age problem which ends with an appropriate conclusion. Clayton Hensley has always been a trouble maker, right from the get-go when he was in kindergarten. Mischief started off small and almost-laughable, but as Clay grew, the problems became more troublesome to both his parents and his principal, Mr. Kelling.
That all changes once his big brother comes home from being incarcerated. Mitch sees the errors of his own troublemaking ways, and insists that Clayton clean up his act. Clay idolizes Mitch and agrees to the changes...changes in his clothes, his hygiene, and his actions. He tries, he really does, but he slips up at first. But, more and more, Clay realizes Mitch is right and he tells Mr. Kelling that he will not mess up again...that is until someone has egged and defaced Mr. Kelling's house on Halloween. Mr. Kelling tells the police to go right to the source, which he believes is Clay. Problem is, it wasn't Clay at all and now he has to prove it. Proving is tough, though, when the evidence virtually points a finger right at Clay.
A story of believing in oneself, acceptance, and faith. The narration on this audio book was spot-on... a production which is top notch.
That all changes once his big brother comes home from being incarcerated. Mitch sees the errors of his own troublemaking ways, and insists that Clayton clean up his act. Clay idolizes Mitch and agrees to the changes...changes in his clothes, his hygiene, and his actions. He tries, he really does, but he slips up at first. But, more and more, Clay realizes Mitch is right and he tells Mr. Kelling that he will not mess up again...that is until someone has egged and defaced Mr. Kelling's house on Halloween. Mr. Kelling tells the police to go right to the source, which he believes is Clay. Problem is, it wasn't Clay at all and now he has to prove it. Proving is tough, though, when the evidence virtually points a finger right at Clay.
A story of believing in oneself, acceptance, and faith. The narration on this audio book was spot-on... a production which is top notch.
May 17, 2011
Clements, Andrew. Troublemaker. Atheneum Books for Children. July 2011. ISBN: 978-1-4169-4930-5. $12.99 F
Gr. 4-6
Clayton Hensley is a troublemaker. He wants to be exactly like his older brother Mitch, who just got out of jail for wielding his own brand of trouble. When Clay uses his free art period to draw the principal as a donkey, he makes sure he's the talk of the school, showing off on the way to the office. But, when Clay reveals the drawing to Mitch, he's in for a surprise. Not only is Mitch not proud, he's disappointed. Mitch wants Clay to turn his life around. The problem is, Clay isn't sure he can do it, or that he even wants to. Being good isn't any fun at all. Or is it? Clements forms interesting parallels between choice, habit and repute, asking the questions: can someone change their reputation? And, is having fun at the expense of another really fun? Occasional pencil drawings of Clay's antics highlight the best parts of the story. An inspiring and comical read. Clay will encourage kids who want to forge a new path, placing their own brand on doing the right thing.
-Terry Ann Lawler - Phoenix Public Library, AZ.
Gr. 4-6
Clayton Hensley is a troublemaker. He wants to be exactly like his older brother Mitch, who just got out of jail for wielding his own brand of trouble. When Clay uses his free art period to draw the principal as a donkey, he makes sure he's the talk of the school, showing off on the way to the office. But, when Clay reveals the drawing to Mitch, he's in for a surprise. Not only is Mitch not proud, he's disappointed. Mitch wants Clay to turn his life around. The problem is, Clay isn't sure he can do it, or that he even wants to. Being good isn't any fun at all. Or is it? Clements forms interesting parallels between choice, habit and repute, asking the questions: can someone change their reputation? And, is having fun at the expense of another really fun? Occasional pencil drawings of Clay's antics highlight the best parts of the story. An inspiring and comical read. Clay will encourage kids who want to forge a new path, placing their own brand on doing the right thing.
-Terry Ann Lawler - Phoenix Public Library, AZ.
June 2, 2013
Andrew Clements never fails to produce a book well worth reading. This title would make an excellent read-aloud to elementary and middle-school students to start discussion and promote reflection about the direction they want their lives to take as well as the destructive nature of humor at the expense of another person. I would have given it five stars except for two issues. The first is the brief explanation of why big brother Mitch wants Clay to shape up (he just finished 30 days in jail), and why Clay offers no resistance to the idea. This moment could have been expanded to give it more impact. My other problem with the book is near the end when Clay describes several trouble-making acts he sees and decides not to do. It's funny and shows his increased maturity, but it could spark a lot of ideas in the unrepentant and unreformed trouble-making reader. Nevertheless, I recommend it to teachers for use in the classroom and to counselors for use in groups or one-on-one therapy. Boys especially will love the concept.
Read
November 4, 2011This book was very interesting especially because I knew someone like this in junior high school. Most times when children come from a home of trouble and no rules that continues everywhere that child goes. Clay and his brother Mitchell came that type of home and it continued while they were at school and nobody wanted to be bothered by them becuase of their attitudes. Once they realize they want to change it is not as easy as it sounds. Mitchell made it through and changed but now wants his little brother Clay to make the change and he is experiencing problems. This is a good book for children to read so they can understand what that child is going throuh not only at school but at home as well. Then the child whom is the trouble maker understand what the other children are going through because of their actions. I would recommend this be a in class assignment because of the different things the children can learn from it will be great.
December 14, 2011
With the same deft hand he applies to 3rd graders, Andrew Clement has moved on to 6th grade. Clay Hensley, doing what he can to follow in his idolized big brother's footsteps, is a smart, charming troublemaker. And then Mitch gets out of jail. To Clay's surprise, Mitch wants to change his own ways and definitely wants Clay to change his. Not so easy when Clay has spent his entire elementary school years deliberately fomenting angst at the school all in the name of fun.
The difficulties inherent in Clay's changed life are simplified (but we're talking about 3rd and 4th grade readers here) but Clay's emotions are real.
What I liked best about this book is the idea that it's okay to start over. It may be hard, it may require some self-analysis and a whole lot of emotional restraint, and it may change the texture of friendships, but it can be done. Sometimes adults are willing to help, too.
The difficulties inherent in Clay's changed life are simplified (but we're talking about 3rd and 4th grade readers here) but Clay's emotions are real.
What I liked best about this book is the idea that it's okay to start over. It may be hard, it may require some self-analysis and a whole lot of emotional restraint, and it may change the texture of friendships, but it can be done. Sometimes adults are willing to help, too.
June 28, 2013
I had mixed feelings on Troublemaker.
Its content and use of language probably aren't appropriate for children of younger grades...or anywhere up to about 6th or 7th grade, for that matter! The author portrays a mischievous child who gets into trouble with his principal for an inappropriate poster. Here, choice language is used multiple times, and, as a children's lit. book, I know I wouldn't use that language!
On the positive side, the author shows the reader that based on the choices that you make in life, it will affect the opportunities that you will have later on down the road, or right away! Basically, think before you act.
All in all, I give this book 3 out of 5 stars because yes, there is a good message in the text, but the language really isn't suitable for children lower than grades 6-7.
Its content and use of language probably aren't appropriate for children of younger grades...or anywhere up to about 6th or 7th grade, for that matter! The author portrays a mischievous child who gets into trouble with his principal for an inappropriate poster. Here, choice language is used multiple times, and, as a children's lit. book, I know I wouldn't use that language!
On the positive side, the author shows the reader that based on the choices that you make in life, it will affect the opportunities that you will have later on down the road, or right away! Basically, think before you act.
All in all, I give this book 3 out of 5 stars because yes, there is a good message in the text, but the language really isn't suitable for children lower than grades 6-7.
September 18, 2011
I enjoyed this! As always, I feel like Andrew Clements got it just right. His students, teachers, and parents all feel very real. Luckily, Clay isn't the type of student you run into very often. But I've definitely met him and felt similar frustrations as expressed by the teachers and administrators in this story. He's so bright and capable! He is making specific choices to act the way he does, which is very frustrating to deal with in the classroom (or in my case school library) setting. I hope this book doesn't act as an idea book for students who are looking for pranks to pull at school! Other than that, I think the message it sends about the importance of our choices is a great one for students to think about. This is definitely a must-read for fans of Andrew Clements.
November 11, 2012
Clever premise, rushed ending. We've seen all kinds of different gifted children in Andrew Clements' books, and it was cool to have a protagonist gifted in art this time around. Clements really does have a book for everyone. Clay is a typically loveable, mischievous, creative protagonist, and the book felt like a return to Clements' golden days of The Landry News, The School Story, and Frindle. Unfortunately, the resolution is thin. No mention is made of Mitch's coercive tendencies toward his younger brother, the main point of this book, much less any kind of solution. I love those early Clement books for delivering important messages lightheartedly, and I felt like this was such a missed opportunity. I am still waiting for another hit story. I know he has it in him.
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