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Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1972

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Book Brief

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Judy Blume

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1972
Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1970s

Theme
Publication Year

1972

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

470L

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Super Short Summary

In Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, nine-year-old Peter Hatcher recounts his daily life in New York City, dealing with his mischievous younger brother Fudge, who causes constant trouble and inadvertently consumes Peter's pet turtle, Dribble, leading to chaos and hospital visits. The episodic narrative explores Peter’s feelings of frustration and love within his family dynamics.

Humorous

Playful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

152,474 ratings

77%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Judy Blume's Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing is praised for its relatable, humorous depiction of sibling dynamics and growing up. Readers appreciate its engaging narrative and realistic characters. However, some critique it for endorsing occasionally problematic behavior and lack of significant parental intervention. Overall, it remains a beloved, influential children's book.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing?

A reader who enjoys Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume is typically aged 8-12, enjoys humorous, relatable family stories, and delights in lighthearted sibling rivalry. Fans of Ramona Quimby by Beverly Cleary or Superfudge by Blume will find this book particularly engaging.

4.4

152,474 ratings

77%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Peter Hatcher

Nine years old, Peter is an intelligent and analytical fourth grader who narrates the story humorously from his perspective, dealing with the challenges posed by his younger brother, Fudge.

Farley Drexel "Fudge" Hatcher is Peter’s obstinate and energetic toddler brother, whose antics often cause chaos and draw the attention of their parents.

The overwhelmed mother of Peter and Fudge, she struggles to balance the demands of her energetic toddler and often relies on Peter for assistance.

Peter's father, Warren Hatcher, is a hardworking account executive in advertising, who supports the family, but often finds parenting challenging.

Peter’s best friend and classmate, he shares adventures with Peter in Central Park and helps him with school projects, showing a loyal and understanding nature.

Peter’s neighbor and classmate, often acting as a rival, who sometimes takes control during school projects but also attempts to babysit Fudge.

Peter’s small turtle, whom he cares for and regards as a personal and prized possession separate from his brother, Fudge.

Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1970s

Theme
Publication Year

1972

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

470L

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