Lions & Liars
Frederick just wants to be popular and important. I think many 5th grade students feel like Frederick, but Frederick takes this position to the extreme in this novel. This novel is funny and yet it is serious in sections, as Frederick comes to understand life and who he is.
When his family’s vacation plans get cancelled, Frederick feels as if the world is coming to an end. No longer able to be pampered on a cruise, Frederick attends his friend’s birthday party where a surprise is waiting for him. A humorous gift is presented to Frederick which was supposed to create playfulness and laughter amongst the friends but instead it generates bitterness and friction. Frederick takes his gift, leaving his friends behind, as he tries to make a point with his friends. I soon realize that Frederick is the last person who should be left alone with such a gift but as I laugh my way through this section.
Frederick later finds himself at a camp. This could be his saving grace, as no one knows him but the campers think he is Dash, a boy who was signed up for this camp experience. Frederick accepts this boy’s identity and he is immediately welcomed with open-arms by the other male campers. Dash’s reputation is well-known and now Frederick is popular and he is relishing in the attention of the other campers.
I thought it was funny how Frederick just assumes Dash’s identity without knowing anything about him. The immediate transformation of Frederick was crazy, as he instantly began to shine and I could almost see him walking around with his head up. Frederick thought life would be great when he would become popular and well-liked but when he finally achieves this, he soon realizes other things occur in his life, that need to be addressed. Life does not stand still.
I liked this novel as I felt it addressed some real-life issues that kids face and I liked the way it handled them. I really enjoyed the cast of characters, they were fun and made the book interesting. I think this novel is great for boys and girls and would be a great read aloud. I highly recommend this novel.
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