Frindle

I just finished reading Frindle by Andrew Clements. This book follows the journey of a boy named Nicholas Allen. The beginning of this book poses the question, "Was Nick Allen a troublemaker?" Throughout the book, the narrator aims to answer this question. 

Nick Allen is a fifth-grade boy who would be described as the class clown, and he is known for entertaining his classmates with his creative ideas. On his first day of class with Mrs. Granger, however, he realizes it won't be as easy to get away with his antics as he is used to. Nick is challenged by Mrs. Granger, and nearly feels defeated until he has the idea to use her own words against her. After learning that every person determines what a particular word means by the way it is used, he picks up a pen, and names it "frindle". Nick's new word eventually catches on, causing a frenzy. Throughout the rest of the year, Mrs. Granger continues to challenge Nick, but he never gives in.

I remember in sixth grade, my teacher read this book to our class. After finishing the book, our entire class had found a wave of creativity. We all went around the room and made up fun names for different objects. 

Since I enjoyed reading this book so much as a child, I decided to read it again. This time around, I noticed elements of the book that I wouldn't have considered as a sixth-grader. Even as an adult I am able to find humor in Nick's actions. I related to some of Mrs. Granger's frustrations. I am still inspired by the determination of Nick as he followed his dreams. 

This book is a great read for students because not only is it entertaining, but it also encourages the young minds who read it to be creative and to never give up on their dreams.