Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing

Peter’s class is assigned a project on “The City”; he is on a committee with Sheila and Jimmy Fargo. They have several weeks to produce a booklet and poster on the topic of transportation, in addition to preparing an oral report. Sheila assumes an authoritative role in the project but complains constantly about being “stuck with the worst possible committee” (71). The trio meets in Peter’s apartment because he is the only child with his own bedroom. The craft equipment that they use for the project is kept in a box under his bed. Sheila brings the booklet home every week, as she does not trust it being kept at Peter’s house.

Upon his arrival home from school one day, Peter finds that Fudge has entered his bedroom and scribbled over the poster on which he and Jimmy had labored so hard. Peter is furious at Fudge and hurt and angry that his mother allowed this to happen. Mrs. Hatcher apologizes to Peter and explains that she spanked Fudge as a result of this transgression. She promises that Fudge will not enter the bedroom again.

Jimmy is very good natured upon learning of the poster’s destruction.