About Average

Andrew Clements is one of my favorite authors because I love that he can write completely average and normal (and flawed) protagonists and still have an interesting story - I think that’s pretty rare to find in children’s books. I love About Average, Jordan is a really charming character who reminds me a lot of myself at that age. It’s a very sweet story, definitely would recommend for kids ages 8-12 (or older, I still like this book and I’m an adult haha)

Andrew Clements is so good at creating likeable characters of all kinds, kids who seem so real, with real concerns, who sometimes make good decisions and sometimes do not. I found Jordan a very sympathetic character, wishing to be appreciated for being good at something. This is something that most if not all people want, to be appreciated for doing something well. The thing is that Jordan does have things that she is good at, they just aren't the kind of talent that people see on a stage.The thing I admired most about Jordan was her decision about how to deal with the bully in her life, Marlea. At first, Jordan is furiously angry with Marlea, and she has every right to be, but what she decides to do about it demonstrates that Jordan is not average. I liked her spunk and good sense, which she demonstrates later to the benefit of others at her school. I confess the ending was not what I was expecting but it gives Jordan a chance to shine. This is a great book to share with youngsters who feel like they aren't really good at anything.

First, let me say that Andrew Clements is a fabulous author who writes touching, engaging stories - filling a great need for mid-level chapter books, especially ones that appeal to boys. Accordingly, I had high hopes for About Average, but it did not pan out. The story started well. He developed a character that felt she wasn't good at anything that mattered (i.e. that gained recognition - academics, sports,etc.), even though it was clear that she was a wonderful person - kind and thoughtful. Enter a conflict with a bully and tension with some nasty weather. Great things looked like they were going to happen for the storyline when Jordan decided she was going to respond to bullying with niceness. She tries it out once, then the story ends abruptly in a totally different direction. I feel like Clements had a good idea, but couldn't bring it together - just didn't feel it and so ended it prematurely. Not his best work, still Clement's poorer job is still an enjoyable read, just not quite the bang and thoughtfulness we've come to expect.

I bought this to see if I wanted to buy a copy for my great niece. I really enjoyed it and am hoping she will too. I liked the way the main character avoided a violent or agumentative response to the bullying.Unlike others who have reviewed this book, I don't usually look for meanings behind everything in a book. I like to enjoy the story and see what impression I have of it (besides being a good read or not) afterwards. I enjoyed the reading and was left feeling good about way problems were faced and handled. I also liked the idea that thinking quickly to handle an emergency makes you more than just "about average".

I liked this book, but the ending did Not surprise me. There was too much detail and 25% talking. This is the review of a 9 year old. I recommend this to people who prefer details than talking. I like when its half and half. One book i recommend about A. Clements is The School Story.

My daughter enjoyed this book

This review is dictated by my 7.5 year old daughter:I've read the book and loved it. It's about a girl named Jordan, who believes that she's average and usually bullied by the "bully". Jordan is brave even in tough situations. I really recommend this book. I found it very inspiring. (I even wrote a book report on it!)- Halleli A.G.

This is a good read for lower middle school bkz most children see themselves as about average especially in such a competitive environment . Being about average can be great !