Horrible Harry and the Scarlet Scissors

July 1, 2014
Gr 1-3-Room 3-B is buzzing with excitement. The new art teacher announces on the South School's new TV program that one lucky third and fourth grader from each class will be interviewed live with their art posters. Doug hopes that Mary's poster advertising her hair-styling business will be chosen, because he fears a big explosion from her if she loses. Everyone is shocked when Harry's poster is picked, and Mary seeks revenge, using her scarlet scissors. Johnny Heller creates a plethora of voices for the many students in the class, effortlessly depicting Doug. Although the two main characters are boys, there are many strong females and a few minority characters, including the new art teacher, which help make this accessible to all lower elementary school students. Horrible Harry's antics are amusing, and even the drama is lighthearted and dealt with in a positive way. This would be great as a classroom listen and for younger fans of Junie B. Jones.-"Sarah Flood, Breckinridge County Public Library, Hardinsburg, KY"

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2013
The Room 3B students all enter a poster contest, and when Harry's is dubbed the winner, jealous Mary lashes out ([cf2]Scissors[cf1]). It's Harry's fault when a mean substitute banishes Song Lee's origami pig to the June box ("a jail for toys"), but the kids have a plan. Kline's considerable grasp of elementary-age children's feelings is on display in these latest installments.

(Copyright 2013 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)