Benny the Big Shot Goes to Camp

May 15, 2003
Gr. 1-2. When Benny goes to overnight camp for the first time, he covers his insecurities and mistakes with one boastful show of bravado after another. Tired of his bragging, his cabinmates take the "blankie" he sleeps with and run it up the flagpole for everyone to see. Bennie regains their respect only after acknowledging that he's not "the best at everything." Though the story pokes fun at Benny's faults, he remains a sympathetic character and even emerges as a hero in the end. The bright, cartoon-style illustrations dramatize the kids' actions and exaggerate their reactions, leaving no doubt about the characters' emotions. From the All Aboard Reading series, this book, with its colorful artwork, offers a glimpse of the activities and pranks at camp, as well as telling a lively story for young readers.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2003, American Library Association.)