A Whole New Ballgame

(Paperback)

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Description

Rip and Red are best friends whose fifth-grade year is nothing like what they expected. They have a crazy new teacher named Mr. Acevedo who doesn't believe in tests or homework and likes off-the-wall projects - the more "off" the better. They also find themselves with a new basketball coach: Mr. Acevedo! Now Rip is knocked completely out of his comfort zone, and for Red, who has ASD, the changes are even more of a struggle. But the boys are a great team who know how to help each other and find ways to make a difference in the classroom and on the court.

Reviews

"This warm slice-of-life novel from Bildner engages and entertains . . . Probert's energetic illustrations match the positive exuberance of the story." --Publishers Weekly

"The book depicts the evolution of a group of fifth graders who learn a lot, grow a lot, and help one another . . . The charming and diverse characters [are] pure fun with a lot of heart." --School Library Journal

"If the students are inspiring, so is [their teacher] Mr. Acevedo, who risks his job to do such radical things as reading aloud and encouraging free reading. (He's supposed to be preparing the kids to take tests!) Probert's cartoonish illustrations lend energy and personality to the likable cast of characters." --Kirkus Reviews

More Praise for the Rip and Red Series

"This fast, fun read featuring characters who love books as much as basketball will appeal to sports fans and nonathletes alike." --School Library Journal on Rookie of the Year

"A diverse cast of characters highlights this good-natured, high-spirited slice of life." --Kirkus Reviews on Rookie of the Year

"Bildner's diverse cast of characters is what energizes this tremendously engaging story . . . Another solid volume in a fun and lively series." --Kirkus Reviews on Tournament of Champions

Author Bio

Phil Bildner is a former New York City public school teacher and lives in Newburgh, New York. philbildner.com Tim Probert also illustrated Kim Baker's novel Pickle. He lives in New York City. timprobert.com