There is something about reading children's books, particularly from your own childhood, that brings a sense of nostalgia. At least in theory, childhood is a simpler time, a time when the lines between good and bad are a little clearer, when imagination shines a little brighter, and when the joy of discovery can completely transport you. As adults, it can be a challenge to hold on to that simplicity. But rereading those books, or reading new ones from then, can help you recapture at least some of that ineffable feeling. Join us for the Book Nostalgia Book Club as we reread our childhood and maybe some of yours. Our inaugural title is Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume, in honor of Blume's immortal book Are You There God, It's Me Margaret making its theatrical debut last week. We hope you join us.
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing
by Judy Blume (1972)
Summary
Nine-year-old Peter Hatcher feels like a great big nothing, especially when beside the tornado that is his almost-three-year-old brother, Farley Drexel Hatcher, aka "Fudge." All the grownups think Fudge is adorable. But Peter knows better. Fudge is nothing but trouble. What starts out amazing enough, with Peter winning a pet turtle at a friend's birthday party that he names Dribble, quickly spirals out of control when his little brother, who has been warned not to even touch Dribble without Peter's permission, walks off with the turtle and in general causes chaos and mischief wherever he goes. Temper tantrums, writing on walls, personal haircuts... he does it all. How is a big brother supposed to survive?
Ask Yourself This
Did you read this book before? As an adult, how do you think you understand the book differently than that of a child? Was it worth a reread? Were there elements that you think you would have missed at a younger age? Elements that no longer worked as an older person?
Did this book remind you of any others? Have you read other books by Judy Blume?
Considering Blume writes of and for children, how well do you think it holds up for adults?
Were there any specific characters that spoke to you more than others (good or bad)? How so?
Any favorite passages?
Why does Peter need boundaries from Fudge? Is it only to protect his stuff?
Do you think that Mr. and Mrs. Hatcher treat Fudge better than they treat Peter? Why or why not? Do you think that this is a fair assessment or is he overly biased?
Why do you think Fudge decides to swallow Dribble?
How does living in New York City make Peter's childhood unique and interesting?
Do you think that Mr. Hatcher is a good dad? A good husband? What about Mrs. Hatcher?
Why does Mrs. Hatcher always seem to take Fudge's side over Peter's?
Do you think Peter sees the puppy as his reward for being a good kid? Does it make up for all he's been through?
How is Peter a good brother to Fudge? How does your perspective change on that from what you would have seen as a kid?
What do we learn about how Peter's parents really feel about him vs. what he thinks they feel about him?
Why do you think the author kills off poor little Dribble?
Siblings have a complicated relationship even among the closest families. Discuss the push and pull of Peter and Fudge’s relationship.
Do you have a sibling? What was something that drives you crazy about them? What do you love? Would you trade them for anything in the world? Did you ever feel that way?
Despite the cultural reach her books have had, very few of Judy Blume's books have been translated to the silver screen. Why do you think that is?
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