213 Valentines

by Barbara Cohen, Wil Clay (Illustrations)

Wade has trouble adjusting when he is transferred to a special fourth grade class for the gifted and talented, so he plans to send himself 213 valentines signed by celebrities.

56 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1991

About the author

Barbara Cohen (1932-1992) was the author of several acclaimed picture books and novels for young readers, including The Carp in the Bathtub, Yussel's Prayer: A Yom Kippur Story, Thank You, Jackie Robinson, and King of the Seventh Grade.

Reviews

[Jaclyn Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The kids and I read this for school. It was an excellent look into what happens when inner city G&T kids are bussed into better performing school districts. Wade is one if these kids. He lives with his Aunt and Uncle while his mom is out of state. He’s brilliant at Math, but doesn’t like going to his new school. Save for a few, the kids ignore him because he is black and from the other side of town. It had wonderful lessons about being a good friend, being honest, and not being afraid to be yourself and be brave. I highly recommend adding it to your shelves for a Valentine’s Day read aloud!

[Heidi · Rating 3 out of 5]

My 9 year old daughter thought this was a little boring. I think by the end she liked it much better. I however, thought it cute with a great ending. Change of attitude and heart by the end. I could see my kids being a little like this and even myself at times too. Always wanting to be tough. Sometimes it can't last :)