July 1, 2004
Gr 2-4-In this beginning chapter book, second-grader Tiger Turcotte is nervous about having to take a practice standardized test. His biggest problem, though, turns out to be filling out the cover: name, grade, birth date, and race. Tiger is Black, Native American, and Hispanic. His teacher and a parent volunteer argue over the question, and finally tell him to fill in "Other." He leaves the space blank, then worries that he will get in trouble for that. Later, Tiger's dad compares race to ice-cream flavors; no matter how many you mix together, you still have ice cream. Tiger feels better, and, fortunately, his teacher discovers that they were using an old test form. The new one has a "Multiracial" category. This quick, easy read touches on the issue of test anxiety, but is more about racial identity and pride. Tiger's voice accurately depicts a little boy who is anxious about something that everyone says is very important. Full-page, half-page, and spot pencil illustrations capture the characters' emotions. Despite some contrived scenes, this is a good addition.-Sharon R. Pearce, Chippewa Elementary School, Bensenville, IL
Copyright 2004 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.