The School Story by Andrew Clements

Book Summary
In The School Story, Natalie and Zoe (two best friends) decide to get Natalie's first novel professionally published. Zoe decides that Natalie's novel is too good not to be published and comes up with a plan to make it happen. Natalie finishes her novel, takes on the pen name Cassandra Day and sends her novel to the publishing company where her mom is an editor. With Zoe as her literary agent, Ms. Clayton as their adult adviser, and eventually the help of Zoe's lawyer dad, the girls manage to get the novel edited by Natalie's unsuspecting mother and published by her company. A reveal of the author to her editor (mother) at the end of the story in a publicity stunt pulled of by Zoe, launches the book onto the children's bestseller list.

My Thoughts
While I often question the possibility of the events in the book actually happening, I was drawn into this book through the interesting characters and the adventure they embark on. It is easy to envision myself at their age wanted to write and publish a book on my own without anyone knowing. Although the ending is somewhat predicable, the story itself was enough to keep me interested the entire time I was reading.

Library Usage
This book would make for a great discussion when talking to elementary age students about books for recreational reading. It could be used to offer a challenge for children to create their own story for "publication" at the library.

Journal Reviews
From Publishers Weekly, September 2002
"In a starred review, PW called this book about a 12-year-old aspiring author a "standout. Indeed a 'school story,' this is at heart a tale about the love between a father and a daughter." Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.

School Library Journal
"The girls are believable characters, completely different, yet better friends because of it. Selznick's black-and-white illustrations add humorous details. A comic novel that's a sure winner." - Terrie Dorio, Santa Monica Public Library, CA. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Booklist
"Clements' story of how two 12-year-olds sell a book is amazingly believable, and his characters are as real as the reader's best friends. Children will connect with thoughtful, talented Natalie as she comes to terms with her father's death through her story, and with brash, loyal Zoe, who gets things done. They'll be drawn quickly into the story's action as the girls plan, connive, write and rewrite, and ultimately celebrate the book's publication. Brian Selznick's occasional illustrations add zest. Be prepared for kids lining up to read this one." - Chris Sherman, Copyright © American Library Association.