Tales from a Not-So-Happy Heartbreaker

October 1, 2013

Gr 5-8-Returning in this episode (Aladdin, 2013) to tell the world about her daily goings-on through her diary, Nikki has plans to ask Brandon to the Sweetheart Dance, the biggest event of the school year. Before that occurs, however, Nikki has to endure receiving a haircut from her little sister as well as passing her swimming test alongside classmate Mackenzie, who has informed Nikki that she will be attending the dance with Brandon, so for her to not bother asking him. Nikki maintains a positive attitude throughout, even when she receives less than complimentary text messages from Brandon. While some older listeners will find Nikki immature, those on the younger end of the age range will enjoy her views on life and will be able to identify with her feelings of embarrassment and see that, like Nikki, being a "dork" is a good thing. Narrator Jenni Barber effectively conveys the sometimes whiney tone of a middle school student, and moves from character to character and female to male voices with ease. Students who are already fans of the series will especially enjoy Nikki's further adventures.-Beth H. Green, Wappingers Junior High School, NY

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