A parent might reach for this book when their child complains about an 'annoying' classmate or is quick to label others as 'weird.' Hubert Clumpty is completely fed up with Barb'ra, who seems to follow him everywhere and copy everything he does. His frustration is palpable and relatable for any child who has felt crowded by a peer. But when Hubert experiences a personal sadness, it is Barb'ra who shows him unexpected and profound kindness, forcing him to reconsider his judgment of her. This humorous and heartfelt story is perfect for early elementary readers, ages 7-9. It gently explores themes of empathy, loneliness, and the importance of looking beyond surface behaviors. It's a wonderful tool for opening a conversation about why people act the way they do and how a single moment of compassion can change everything.
The protagonist repeatedly calls a classmate 'crazy Barb'ra,' which is part of the story's problem.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly with the death of a pet. The approach is secular, focusing entirely on the emotional experience of grief and the comfort offered by a peer's compassion. The resolution is hopeful, as Hubert's sadness is validated and soothed by Barb'ra's kind gesture, which also catalyzes a new friendship.
Ideal Reader
An 8-year-old who is navigating complex social dynamics and is quick to judge or label peers. It is also for the child who feels socially awkward and misunderstood, as they might see themselves in Barb'ra. It speaks directly to the experience of being annoyed by a classmate's quirks.
Parent Prep
Parents should be prepared to discuss the death of the canary. While handled gently, it is the emotional core of the story's climax. It's also a good opportunity to discuss name-calling (specifically the 'crazy' label) and how words can shape our perceptions of others. The book can be read cold, but these conversations will deepen its impact. A parent hears their child complaining, "He's so weird, he won't leave me alone," or "She's always copying me!" The book is a perfect response to a child who is struggling to find empathy for a peer they find irritating.
Age Experience
A younger reader (age 7) will connect with the humor of Hubert's annoyance and the clear takeaway: being kind is good. An older reader (age 9) will better appreciate the nuance, understanding that Barb'ra's behavior might stem from loneliness or a desire for friendship, and will grasp the deeper lesson about perspective-taking.
What Makes It Special
Many books address bullying or making friends, but this one uniquely captures the specific, everyday irritation of a peer's persistent, slightly odd presence. It validates the feeling of annoyance while gently challenging the assumptions behind it, showing how a single act of kindness can completely reframe a relationship.
Read plot summary
The story is told from the perspective of Hubert Clumpty, a boy who is endlessly annoyed by his classmate, Barb'ra. He feels she mimics and follows him relentlessly, leading him to label her "crazy Barb'ra." His frustration builds throughout the school day. The emotional turning point occurs when Hubert's beloved pet canary dies, and he is deeply sad. Barb'ra is the only classmate who seems to notice his grief. In an act of pure empathy, she gives him a new pet, a turtle. This kindness shatters Hubert's perception, and he begins to see Barb'ra not as a pest, but as a caring person and a potential friend.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
At the start of the story, why do you think Barb'ra was always near Hubert? Do you think she was trying to be annoying on purpose?
2
Hubert calls her 'crazy Barb'ra.' How do you think that name made Barb'ra feel? After reading the whole story, do you think it was a fair name for her?
3
When Hubert's canary died, Barb'ra was the one who did something kind. Why do you think she understood his sadness when no one else seemed to notice?
4
The book's title is 'That Crazy Barb'ra.' If you could give the book a new title after finishing it, what would it be and why?
5
Have you ever felt annoyed by someone but then discovered something nice about them that changed your mind? What happened?
