Cara seems headed for trouble with her teacher, Mr. Larson, when she prints an editorial criticizing his teaching. But instead Cara and Mr. Larson find themselves joined in the fight of their lives against the principal and the school board. Good read-aloud for the oldest in this group. Good for reluctant readers at the upper end of this range. Kids love the humor and the complex issues raised.
Adequate art adds little to the already exciting story.
Cara deals bravely with the consequences of her actions. Cara is filled with anger following her parents' split. Cara defies her teacher and her mother. Once Mr. Larson was a great teacher. Now he is burned out, and spends his class periods hiding behind a newspaper while his students do as they please.