This novel is about a group of 7th grade outcasts in a small town who call themselves the Gang of Five. They are taunted because of their weight, intelligence, sexual orientation and other reasons and decide to run against their popular peers in the upcoming student council elections. They create a new political party called the “No-Name Party” and their platform is to end name-calling at their school. They ultimately lose the election, but gain valuable life lessons and support from their principal for a "No Name-Calling Day" at school. As a reader, I felt the overall themes were about acceptance, diversity, labels and the power of stereotypes. The author wisely uses humor throughout this touching story that both students and adults will be able to relate to. I also liked the underlying lesson to celebrate individuality and be who you are. As a teacher, I feel this book would be great for both upper elementary and middle school students. Activities could include discussing issues like bullying and the stereotypes featured in the book or creating a no name-calling week at your school or in your classroom. It would also be valuable to discuss vocabulary words from the novel, like hooligan, moniker, grassroots, etc.
No comments:
Post a Comment