Superfudge



Last updated Tuesday, January 23, 2007

Author: Judy Blume
Date of Publication: 2002
ISBN: 0525469303
Grade Level: 4th    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Feb. 2007

Synopsis: (From AudioFile) Blume's reading of this sequel to Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing shows the humorous side of sibling rivalry. In Peter Hatcher's tone of disbelief at the news of his mother's pregnancy, Blume accurately re-creates the melodramatic tone of a fifth-grade boy. In juxtaposition to Peter is Fudge, his four-year-old brother. Blume's carefree prattle is right on target for him. Peter's account of Fudge's antics, a constant embarrassment to his family, will keep the listener amused. Elementary school fans will enjoy Blume's comic performance of typical family situations.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  What is superfudge?
•  Do you have any younger brothers or sisters? Are you the oldest child? Youngest? Middle?
•  Is it better to be an older or younger brother or sister? Why?

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Have you ever moved? Did you have to change schools and make new friends? Was that hard?
•  Is "Fudge" a real name or a nickname? Do you have a nickname (family name)?
•  How do your younger brothers/sisters bother you? Can they be your friends?
•  Do your older brothers or sisters let you play with them? How do they play or help you?

Craft ideas:
•  If you were to move with your family out of the city (Los Angeles), draw a picture of your new home and what it would have.
•  Peter and Fudge’s dad is in advertising. Create an ad for your favorite thing.
•  Draw a picture of you and your best friend doing something fun.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!