Fourth Grade Journey

A Fourth Grade Teacher's Journey Through the World of Books

Monday, January 23, 2017

Antsy Does Time by Neal Schusterman

How I Heard About It:  After finding The Schwa Was Here on audio, I saw that there was a second story in the "Antsy" series.  I was not aware that there was a second story.  When I checked out the first audio from the library, I added this one to the stack of audio books.  

What It Is About:  Antsy is back for another wild tale of friendship, taking chances, and learning more about himself.  Antsy meets Gunnar and learns that Gunnar may be "dying".  Antsy has never met anyone that has an illness that could kill them.  He isn't sure how to handle this, but then comes up with a brilliant idea.  Antsy comes up with a plan to "sign over" a month of his life to give to Gunnar.  When his classmates hear of this plan, they begin to follow suit.  Gunnar and Antsy spend more and more time hanging out and Antsy gets to know the members of Gunnar's family; including his sister who Antsy thinks is one of a kind. He also finds out that Gunnar could be lying about this "health" and learns the "ins" and "outs" of what makes Gunnar tick and the reasons he is doing the things he is doing.  There is more than meets the eye when it comes to Gunnar and his family.  Antsy also has his own issues with his family.  What started out as a simple "gift" to his new friend, becomes life changing for the two boys involved.  

What I Thought Of It:  My first thought was where was the Schwa?  I just assumed he would be in the second story, but he was not.  It was a new focus on Gunnar.  At first I was disappointed, but soon became wrapped up in the new story with Antsy and Gunnar.  The premise of giving "time" to someone else was pretty unique and special.  I liked that so many of the characters got on board and joined the "fight".  The two stories of each family were interesting, touching, and realistic.  The book wasn't as "powerful" as the first one, but I did enjoy the overall story.  The author narrated this one also and did a terrific job.  

Who Should Read It:  A definite must read for students in grades seven and up.  I think readers in middle-school or the early years of high-school would enjoy it the most.  Of course adult readers that enjoy YA and/or works by Schusterman.  Happy Reading!  

Rating:  4 STARS out of 5 Stars





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