Donavan's Double Trouble Book

Donavan thought that fourth grade would be his best year ever. Instead, it's turning out to be nothing but trouble:

1. He's failing math class.

2. If his grades don't improve, his whiz-kid younger sister will have to tutor him!

3. When his beloved Uncle Vic returns from overseas combat as a paraplegic, everyone else is happy that he's safe at home. But all Donavan feels is uncomfortable and sad.

4. Grandma insists on inviting Uncle Vic to the biggest family event of the school year, and she's not taking no for an answer! But what will the other kids think when they see Uncle Vic in a wheelchair?

From the author of Donavan's Word Jar comes an inspiring story that explores what it means to be a hero.

Children's Literature

Donavan has plenty of trouble. He is failing math; no matter how much he studies, Donovan just bombs out. It is great that his favorite uncle has come home safe from the war, but Uncle Vic has lost both legs and is now in a wheelchair. Can Donovan reconnect to this man who was once a firefighter and a fantastic basketball player? There is also Grandma's note about Uncle Vic that Donavan did not give to Ms. Cassel, the principal, and the note from his math teacher that he did not give to his mom and dad. Fourth grade is not turning out to be a great year. Donovan's determination to overcome his "math block" (as his friends call it) is admirable; he is willing to try everyone's suggestions (even those of his super smart younger sister), and he never gives up. Over time, Donovan's confused feelings about his uncle are resolved, and he is thrilled that Uncle Vic is not only displaying his wood carvings at a back-to-school night but is showing off his incredible talent as basketball player with the Flying Wheels, one of the best wheelchair basketball teams in the state. This is a good addition to any library's African-American collection and an excellent choice for kids who are coping with feelings of anger, embarrassment, and sadness about a disabled relative. Black and white drawings illustrate the text. Reviewer: Anita Barnes Lowen