The Many Troubles of Andy Russell (Andy Russell, 1)

I was reading the book to my son and chapter 4 described Andy worrying about his mom catching some "disease from gerbils or rare Chinese virus". My son asked what this virus was about. I didn't know what to say except thinking what a bias the author has towards Chinese. I don't think this is funny or creative writing at all. This may put prejudice against one nation into young minds with no basis. Poor choice of words from the author.

Andy Russell is a young boy who's life is full of troubles. His gerbils have escaped. He's having trouble paying attention in class. His best friend needs a place to stay while her parents are recovering from a car accident and he's sure his parents will say no! They just found out his mother is going to have a baby!What did you like or not like about the book? This is the first book in the Andy Russell series. Kids will enjoy this and look for the others that follow it.Would you recommend this book? Why or Why not? I would recommend this book. I feel that kids can relate to the characters in the book well.

Good book for children just starting with chapter books. Everytime Andy turns around it seems that he is getting into trouble, whether its his fault or not. Kids will enjoy the pranks in the classroom and may get into the deeper character of Tanisha, who lives with Andy's family while her parents recover in a rehabilitation center from an accident.The only reason I didn't give it more stars was how the classroom was described and how the substitute teacher was written. She is new to teaching and walks in not knowing how to handle the class and gives them tasks that are outrageous for their age, yet it seems they complete all the tasks given to them and only complain.