Jerrold Beim (1911–1957)

This is a 7th grade story, following Dick's attempts to raise his own standards in school and in himself. The incentive is the promise of a new bicycle, if he can make two A's twice in succession. Dick knows himself as a C-to-B student. He shines in Social Studies -- but the second A is a poser. So dishonestly he takes help from a friend in math. Other events add up:- there's a dance and new friendship with a girl; there's Dick's idea that helps in the campaign for a new school; there's his election to student council. And there's that illicitly acquired A and the new bike, hollow rewards. Ultimately a straightforward confession, on his own decision, bring truer recognition of his own capabilities. Good balance here, for a story with sound values.… (meer)

This a nice story of an "Eskimo" child (quotes used because I know this term has fallen out of favor for some people) who learns about igloos from his parents and then uses his new-found knowledge to save himself and his new puppy when lost in a storm. Very old-fashioned pencil drawings printed in blue ink really capture a different time. Considering the fact that this is a 70 year old book about a different culture, I don't find anything in it to offend modern sensibilities. Good parents, clever kid, cute dog.… (meer)

Nothing could beat the excitement of getting the bag of books you ordered from Junior Scholastic -- albeit some 3 or 4 months late, which is forever when you're 11. Then you felt obliged to read the books. Many things could beat that excitement. One thing I remember about this book, some 49 years later. The hero feels guilty about having dug out a cavity in the bar of hand soap, but, upon reflecting that at least his mom will be happy his hands are clean, he felt better. Why in thunderation would something like that stick with a person?… (meer)