Genre 6 Book 3 – Fiction, Fantasy and Young Adult

1. Bibliography
Holm, Jennifer L. 2007. MIDDLE SCHOOL IS WORSE THAN MEATLOAF. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers.
Illustrated by: Elicia Castald
ISBN 0689852819

2. Plot Summary
Ginny Davis is a seventh grade student whose life is full of ups and downs. In MIDDLE SCHOOL IS WORSE THAN MEATLOAF, readers are treated to a list of to do’s that Ginny hopes to accomplish. Through drawings, ticket stubs, newspaper clippings, diary entries and much more, Holm guides the readers through a year in the life of Ginny Davis.

3. Critical Analysis
The characters in MIDDLE SCHOOL IS WORSE THAN MEATLOAF are true to life. Ginny is a typical twelve year old middle school student enduring experiences both pleasant and not through the course of the year. For example, Ginny really wants to be the lead in the play and instead her ex best friend lands the role. She has a friend, Becky Soo, whom she shares feelings with through discussions and instant messaging. Brian Bukvic is the nerdy boy that eventually becomes so much more. Ginny has endured the tragic death of her father only to see her mother fall in love and remarry; therefore, forcing Ginny to adapt to a new stepfather. Through the diary notes and letters, Ginny “talks” as any other twelve year old. Looking at the instant messaging we see what is “normal” in this arena: “r u really quitting ballet??? because of what happened at the slumber party? Ginny!!!!! Who cares what Mary Catherine says!!”

The events are characteristic of middle school students. Ginny experiences bad hair days, fights with friends, bullying from boys, annoying big and younger brothers, and the need to purchase items that Mom says has to wait. As her thirteenth birthday approaches, the readers see growth in Ginny and the other characters. The setting takes place in school and at home primarily. Modern times are conveyed through the instant messaging and various events.

The underlying theme has to do with overcoming challenges in one’s life. Obstacles that young adults face seem life ending to them even though in the large scheme of life, they are learning experiences. Told through post-it notes, letters, school assignments, IM, ticket stubs and other paraphernalia, the reader enjoys the story told in a light-hearted care free style.

The illustrations are colorful and eye catching. Diary entries and letters are written in a child’s handwriting. Conversing via instant messaging is so “the thing to do” in these modern times. Ginny, the main character, will appeal to other young ladies who can relate to the ups and downs of middle school life. Young adult readers will fly through the pages of this delightful book.

4. Review Excerpt(s)
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “…Holm's creative book should hook readers, especially girls who want something out of the ordinary.”
CHILDREN’S LITERATURE REVIEW: “The form is brilliant and the voice fresh and funny.”

5. Connections
Middle school is a transitional time in children’s lives. This is a good novel to share with students to add humor to the situation. It would be a great read aloud. Once it has been read, have students write papers depicting their middle school year’s experiences. Students might also write an extension to the ending of this novel.
Other books that might appeal to middle school students include: DIARY OF A WIMPY KID by Jeff Kinney, SCHOOLED by Gordon Korman, and LAWN BOY by Gary Paulson.
Another book by Jennifer L. Holm is PENNY FROM HEAVEN.