When I saw the names Sharon Creech and Harry Bliss on the cover, I expected a masterpiece. But A Fine, Fine School (2001) was just OK. The insights and surprises I love about Creech's middle grade stories did not appear in this repetetive and predictable text. She does communicate a valuable message: too much school precludes the essential learning that takes place beyond the classroom. Furthermore, "No one knew how to tell Mr. Keene that." Mr. Keen is the dedicated principal of a fine, fine school. But his position of power prevents people from disagreeing with him. Sound familiar? This is unfortunate, because Mr. Keen does listen when a student, in a kind and respectful manner, challenges his decisions. Perhaps he would have listened if someone had spoken up sooner.
Marcy Boatman has A Fine Fine School for Journeys. The Learning Beach has Vocabulary Powerpoint: A Fine, Fine School. Teaching Tomorrow Story has A Fnie, Fine School Digital Vocabulary Supplement.
