Einstein The Class Hamster by Janet Tashjian...

How I Heard About It:   I believe it was first Colby Sharp on Twitter that mentioned this book.  When I saw it at the book store the other day, I decided to buy it to add to my classroom collection.  At this time in our year, I know it will make a great addition to the classroom library.

What It Is About:  Einstein is a genius hamster that resides in the classroom of Ned and his other classmates.  He is a small animal, but has a huge amount of factual knowledge.  When the class has the chance to participate in a trivia game show, Ned and Einstein know that their class has a chance to win.  The problem is no one in the class can actually hear Einstein except for Ned and a couple of other class pets.  They come up with a plan to help the class prepare for the game show while their teacher keeps falling "asleep", the principal keeps "popping" in, and the other class pets cause problems for Einstein and Ned.  

What I Thought Of It:  This was a delightful little chapter book.  It is part early reader, part graphic novel, and part chapter book.  The story was fun, cute, and charming.  It is amazing that as a reader you begin to root for a little hamster named Einstein.  Although a simple story, I found many "deeper" themes and messages underlying the main story.  The graphics/illustrations added greatly to the story and were fun to look at and use to add to the text.  

Who Should Read It:   I'm excited to introduce this book to my 4th grade class tomorrow.  I would say it is on the easy side for my readers, but I also know they will enjoy the book.  I think some of my struggling readers will also find great success with it.  This book could easily be a part of any 2nd through 4th grade classroom.  I love when I find a "chapter book" that is on the shorter side and a bit easier because I think there are so many students that need these kinds of books.  Happy Reading!  

Rating:  4 Stars out of 5 Stars