43 pages • 1 hour read
Jerry SpinelliFourth Grade Rats
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1992A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In Jerry Spinelli's Fourth Grade Rats, Suds Morton navigates the social pressures of fourth grade, where being a "rat" involves rebellious behavior. Though his friend Joey quickly embraces this new identity, Suds grapples with the expectation to change. To gain his crush Judy's affection, Suds tries to conform but ultimately learns that true maturity means being true to himself. The book contains descriptions of bullying and peer pressure.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Fourth Grade Rats by Jerry Spinelli receives acclaim for its engaging writing and relatable exploration of peer pressure and growing up. Readers appreciate the humor and memorable characters but occasional criticism arises about predictability and simplicity. Overall, it's well-suited for young readers navigating similar experiences.
Who Should Read Fourth Grade Rats?
Readers who enjoy Fourth Grade Rats by Jerry Spinelli are typically upper elementary students who appreciate humorous and relatable stories about everyday school life. Fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney and Judy Moody by Megan McDonald would similarly enjoy Spinelli's light-hearted yet meaningful exploration of growing up.
RecommendedReading Age
8-12yearsLexile Level
340L