About This Book
Barthe DeClements' 'Nothing's Fair in Fifth Grade' is a poignant and realistic chapter book exploring the social dynamics of elementary school. It centers on Elsie Edwards, a new fifth grader who is overweight and grappling with significant home problems, leading her classmates to initially ostracize her. The narrative, likely from the perspective of one of Elsie's classmates, delves into themes of prejudice, empathy, and the struggle for acceptance. Parents will appreciate how the book tackles difficult subjects like bullying, body image, and socioeconomic challenges with sensitivity, ultimately delivering a message of kindness and understanding. It's an excellent choice for opening conversations about fairness and treating others with compassion.
A fifth grade class, repelled by the overweight new student who has serious home problems, finally learns to accept her.
Concepts
Loneliness & BelongingEmpathy & KindnessSelf-Confidence & IdentityResilience & PerseveranceSadness & GriefJustice & FairnessFear & BraveryFriendship & LoyaltyTeamwork & CollaborationShame & GuiltJoy & GratitudeMaking FriendsBeing DifferentBullyingFinancial HardshipSibling RivalryPeer PressureSchool LifeFriendship & SocialFamily & Siblings
bullying
illness
separation_from_parent
financial_hardship
Discussion Prompts
1
Why do you think the other kids reacted to Elsie the way they did at first?
2
What does 'fair' mean to you? Do you think things are always fair in real life?
3
How did Elsie show bravery even when things were tough for her?
4
What are some ways the class learned to be more accepting of Elsie?
5
If you were a new student, what would you want your classmates to do to make you feel welcome?
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