Hero of Third Grade Book

When Randall changes to a new school, he pretends to be an anonymous hero until, when his third grade class plans a fundraiser, he finds that being himself is good enough.

School Library Journal

Gr 2-3-Randall feels that his life is ruined. His parents have divorced and he and his mother have to move to a new town. Now the class bully is after him and the rest of the kids just ignore him. Then he finds a mission when he remembers an old movie-The Scarlet Pimpernel. Like the daring French champion, he resolves to do noble deeds in secret. He retrieves a homework paper vandalized by Gordo's gang, locates a stolen toy, and encourages a student upset by a classroom conflict. Each time, he leaves an anonymous note stamped with a red flower. The whole class is excited by the mysterious messages, and speculation about the unseen hero occupies every lunch hour and recess. While Randall enjoys his secret identity, he wonders if he will ever be accepted as himself. The short chapters and realistic dialogue will appeal to transition readers, and they'll identify with the authentic characters and classroom relationships. A humorous beginning chapter book with a quiet message about courage and individuality.-Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL