"My new pet's not an animal, Mr. Todd," Judy said.  "And it doesn't eat homework.  Just bugs and raw hamburger."  Any kid who has a Venus fly trap named Jaws for a pet deserves her own series, and Judy Moody is quite a character.  With her own slang: "ROAR!" for bad moods, and "Rare!" for noteworthy discoveries like Frank eating paste on a dare, Judy starts third grade with trepidation and eventually triumphs in spite of her doubts and her younger brother Stink.

A perfect fit for young readers ready for chapter books, or a fun family read-aloud, Judy Moody will have everyone laughing and moaning right along with the vivid characters.  Their realistic experiences are never too daunting, and the entire book is laced with humor that will put a smile on the face of even the grouchiest kid (or parent!).