I Will Never Get a Star on Mrs. Benson's Blackboard (Reprint) (Paperback) (Jennifer K. Mann)

Book Synopsis

Rose is a distracted and creative soul. She does her best at school, but sometimes her mind wanders and she answers the wrong question. And keeping her desk neat is a challenge. When it's time to make thank-you cards for a class visitor, Rose's art supplies turn her workspace -- and her -- into a colorful mess. But her artistic skills shine through in the gorgeous oversize card she creates. Could she possibly get a star after all?

Review Quotes

There's considerable potential for classroom conversations here, particularly as students gather to talk about different strengths, and Rose's story will resonate with many an earnest artist trying to find his or her way onto the board.
--Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)

Mann's ink, gouache, and digital collage illustrations play up the dichotomy between Rose, a pink-cheeked redhead with untied shoes, and Mrs. Benson, an older Caucasian woman with grayish hair in a bun...Readers will certainly empathize with Rose.
--Kirkus Reviews

This warm, generous outing will appeal to children both with and without a polished sense of self.
--Booklist

A unique addition to school-themed picture book collections.
--School Library Journal

Large ink and gouache illustrations are reminiscent of Peter Reynolds' work with their childlike wavering lines and bright washes, capturing the endearing Rose's every emotion from despair to triumph...Mann conveys the yearning of a child for her teacher's approval and the magic that can happen when a wise teacher celebrates the uniqueness of each student.
--School Library Connection

About The Author