The Sloppy Copy Slipup Paperback – February 28, 2009

Got this for my son, he didn't even read it, but the book looks really cute and DyAnne autographed it at a school event.

Good book great book fantastic books for a new one or two of them are the most amazing things that

This book arrived looking a little worn, but otherwise it is fine. I hope the young man I tutor in reading wiil enjoy reading this book.

This book is dumb.I did not enjoy it. It's a very simple read with a basic story. It is a good beginner book though.

I love reading this book to my students

Brian Higman is the hero of The Sloppy Copy Slip-up by DyAnne DiSavlo and is about to be in big trouble. Brian is in fifth-grade and feels he never has anything to write about. He could write about his family, but he figures writing about them is boring. Brian reminds me of many boys that I know in thinking that nothing in their life is of interest. So I found it odd that Brian began to write in his journal while waiting to pass in another blank assignment. Oh, I admit there certainly are kids who have no trouble in filling up their school journals but struggle with actual writing assignments. However, the majority of struggling writers I've taught would rather talk to their neighbors, flick things, or even nap. But back to Brian. In a classic saved-by-the-bell scenario (literally), school is interrupted by a fire drill. While his class files outside, Brian's thoughts drift to the electric guitar he bought the previous weekend. Ah, no wonder he didn't have time to write his sloppy copy: He had an "emergency". Once again, Brian reminds me of several students I know. They're the ones about whom adults say, "If only you put as much effort into your work as you do into avoiding it...." When the class returns from the fire drill and Brian finally has to face his teacher, he launches into a story about his weekend. His teacher, classmates, and even the principal apparently find his escapades so compelling that they beg throughout the day to hear installments. Not only did I find it unrealistic that Brian would be allowed to interrupt a school day like this, but I found myself yawning through his rambling and long-winded story. When Brian's teacher finally requires him to put words to paper, Brian views her request as a second chance and completes his assignment without any further delays. Unlike the struggling writers I know, he whips it off without any mistakes or further qualms. As for the next time he has an assignment? Brian comes prepared with a pad and pencil in his pocket and a new motto: "A writer is always prepared to write." If only it were so easy to encourage struggling students to write!

What a great book. Readers are surely going to be able to relate, or create connections to Brian. Brian shows up to school without having completed the first draft of his writing assignment. He had nothing to write about, everything he can think of is too boring, too short, too long, etc. So, Brian, after a series of close escapes, ends up having to explain his reason for not having his work completed. He ends up telling a great story from his life. He had something to write about as well. Readers will jump at the chance to voice their predictions as Brian's story unfolds.The author does a wonderful job of throwing in writing details, such as pointing out similes.Overall a great read that I am sure many readers will enjoy.

My daughters just started creative writing class. I checked out the book by fluke! And, I am short of words to express my pleasure. My daughter is not a great reader and am struggling to instill love for reading in her. I am grateful to the writer for writing such an engaging book. Thanks!