Jasper John Dooley

Gr 1–4—Jasper John Dooley is excited about being the class Star of the Week. He is looking forward to participating in some activities, but things don't seem to go as planned. As Jasper prepares for show-and-tell, his friend Ori storms into class late and talks about his brand-new baby sister, taking the attention from the star and his enthusiasm for his lint collection. While working on his family-tree poster, Jasper realizes he is jealous of Ori and the past Stars of the Week, who have large family trees. The class laughs when Jasper shows off his three-dimensional "Family Stick" with an imaginary sibling. When he builds an imaginary brother out of wood and brings him to class, everyone laughs again. With each mishap, Jasper is scared that he will lose his star badge. This first title in a transitional chapter book series introduces an enthusiastic boy full of creativity and everyday concerns. Line drawings in various sizes support his quirky personality and zeal. This title serves as an easier, male rendition of Sarah Pennypacker's "Clementine" series (Hyperion).—Janet Weber, Tigard Public Library, OR