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Judy Moody #13
Judy Moody and the Bucket List
Drumroll, please: Judy Moody is about to become a poop-scooping, hinny-riding, one-girl band extraordinaire as she takes on her very own Bucket List.
Judy is visiting Grandma Lou one day when she accidentally finds an uber-mysterious list of activities — a Bucket List! Which gives Judy an idea: How rare would it be if she made her own way-official bucket list of all the things she wants to do—before she starts fourth grade? Pretty soon Judy is off and running trying to cross off all her items: learn to do a cartwheel, invent something rad, go to Antarctica (the real one), ride a horse—the list goes on. But what happens if Grandma Lou achieves everything on her list? Does that mean she’ll be ready to . . . kick the bucket?
Judy is visiting Grandma Lou one day when she accidentally finds an uber-mysterious list of activities — a Bucket List! Which gives Judy an idea: How rare would it be if she made her own way-official bucket list of all the things she wants to do—before she starts fourth grade? Pretty soon Judy is off and running trying to cross off all her items: learn to do a cartwheel, invent something rad, go to Antarctica (the real one), ride a horse—the list goes on. But what happens if Grandma Lou achieves everything on her list? Does that mean she’ll be ready to . . . kick the bucket?
177 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2016
184 people are currently reading
1272 people want to read
About the author
Megan McDonald
331 books732 followers"Sometimes I think I am Judy Moody," says Megan McDonald, author of the Judy Moody series, the Stink series, and THE SISTERS CLUB. "I'm certainly moody, like she is. Judy has a strong voice and always speaks up for herself. I like that."
For Megan McDonald, being able to speak up for herself wasn't always easy. She grew up as the youngest of five sisters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her father, an ironworker, was known to his coworkers as "Little Johnny the Storyteller." Every evening at dinner the McDonalds would gather to talk and tell stories, but Megan McDonald was barely able to get a word in edgewise. "I'm told I began to stutter," she says, leading her mother to give her a notebook so she could start "writing things down."
Critically acclaimed, the Judy Moody books have won numerous awards, ranging from a PUBLISHERS WEEKLY Best Book of the Year to an International Reading Association Children's Choice. "Judy has taken on a life of her own," the author notes, with nearly 3 million Judy Moody books in print. Interestingly, the feisty third-grader is highly popular with boys and girls, making for a strong base of fans who are among Megan McDonald's strongest incentives to keep writing, along with "too many ideas and a little chocolate." And now -- by popular demand -- Judy Moody's little brother, Stink, gets his chance to star in his own adventures! Beginning with STINK: THE INCREDIBLE SHRINKING KID, three more stories, and his own encyclopedia, STINK-O-PEDIA, Stink's special style comes through loud and strong -- enhanced by a series of comic strips, drawn by Stink himself, which are sprinkled throughout the first book. About the need for a book all about Stink, Megan McDonald says, "Once, while I was visiting a class full of Judy Moody readers, the kids, many with spiked hair à la Judy's little brother, chanted, 'Stink! Stink! Stink! Stink! Stink!' as I entered the room. In that moment, I knew that Stink had to have a book all his own."
More recently, Megan McDonald has recalled some of her own childhood with the warmth, humor -- and squabbles -- of three spunky sisters in THE SISTERS CLUB.
Megan McDonald and her husband live in Sebastopol, California, with two dogs, two adopted horses, and fifteen wild turkeys that like to hang out on their back porch.
For Megan McDonald, being able to speak up for herself wasn't always easy. She grew up as the youngest of five sisters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her father, an ironworker, was known to his coworkers as "Little Johnny the Storyteller." Every evening at dinner the McDonalds would gather to talk and tell stories, but Megan McDonald was barely able to get a word in edgewise. "I'm told I began to stutter," she says, leading her mother to give her a notebook so she could start "writing things down."
Critically acclaimed, the Judy Moody books have won numerous awards, ranging from a PUBLISHERS WEEKLY Best Book of the Year to an International Reading Association Children's Choice. "Judy has taken on a life of her own," the author notes, with nearly 3 million Judy Moody books in print. Interestingly, the feisty third-grader is highly popular with boys and girls, making for a strong base of fans who are among Megan McDonald's strongest incentives to keep writing, along with "too many ideas and a little chocolate." And now -- by popular demand -- Judy Moody's little brother, Stink, gets his chance to star in his own adventures! Beginning with STINK: THE INCREDIBLE SHRINKING KID, three more stories, and his own encyclopedia, STINK-O-PEDIA, Stink's special style comes through loud and strong -- enhanced by a series of comic strips, drawn by Stink himself, which are sprinkled throughout the first book. About the need for a book all about Stink, Megan McDonald says, "Once, while I was visiting a class full of Judy Moody readers, the kids, many with spiked hair à la Judy's little brother, chanted, 'Stink! Stink! Stink! Stink! Stink!' as I entered the room. In that moment, I knew that Stink had to have a book all his own."
More recently, Megan McDonald has recalled some of her own childhood with the warmth, humor -- and squabbles -- of three spunky sisters in THE SISTERS CLUB.
Megan McDonald and her husband live in Sebastopol, California, with two dogs, two adopted horses, and fifteen wild turkeys that like to hang out on their back porch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
January 20, 2025
We just finished this book about Judy and Bucket Lists. Reading it with J was a 5-star experience. You can see my thoughts from the first read below.
When J and I finish a book we compare favorite chapters. For J it was 'Do Not/Don't Kick the Bucket List' where Judy crosses several things off her list and gets a fun surprise from Grandma Lou. You may have noticed the contraction in the chapter title. In this book Judy's class is learning about contractions so many are highlighted in a similar way in the narrative. A great way to help the reader get a firm grasp on the concept.
My favorite chapter was 'Dud Ranch.' Grandma Lou takes Judy and Stink to a dude ranch. Unfortunately the ranch has seen better days and does not look at all like the brochure. In the end the kids make the best of it and get to ride on a hinny (cross between a male horse and a female donkey). BTW, a mule is the product of a male donkey and a female horse. 🐎
Our next read will be Judy Moody and the Right Royal Tea Party. London, here we come!👑
From 2016: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
I have been a Judy Moody fan for years. Started reading them with aloud to my boys when the first book came out. Even though my boys are too grown up for read alouds I still like to keep tabs on Judy. She does not disappoint. As a bonus young readers will reinforce their skills with contractions along with Judy while reading about her latest to do list.
When J and I finish a book we compare favorite chapters. For J it was 'Do Not/Don't Kick the Bucket List' where Judy crosses several things off her list and gets a fun surprise from Grandma Lou. You may have noticed the contraction in the chapter title. In this book Judy's class is learning about contractions so many are highlighted in a similar way in the narrative. A great way to help the reader get a firm grasp on the concept.
My favorite chapter was 'Dud Ranch.' Grandma Lou takes Judy and Stink to a dude ranch. Unfortunately the ranch has seen better days and does not look at all like the brochure. In the end the kids make the best of it and get to ride on a hinny (cross between a male horse and a female donkey). BTW, a mule is the product of a male donkey and a female horse. 🐎
Our next read will be Judy Moody and the Right Royal Tea Party. London, here we come!👑
From 2016: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
I have been a Judy Moody fan for years. Started reading them with aloud to my boys when the first book came out. Even though my boys are too grown up for read alouds I still like to keep tabs on Judy. She does not disappoint. As a bonus young readers will reinforce their skills with contractions along with Judy while reading about her latest to do list.
December 3, 2024
این جلد هم خیلی باحال بود. جالبترین بخشش اینه که مادربزرگ جودی (که با شناختنش میفهمیم جودی به کی رفته!) با در نظر گرفتن مرگ، فهرست آرزوهاش رو نوشته. از اونجایی که شبیه به یکی از مسائل خودمه، خیلی نظرم رو جلب کرد.
January 21, 2019
شما چه آرزوهایی دارید؟
تا حالا به نوشتن آرزوهات، قبل از پر شدن پیمانه عمرت فکر کردی؟
تا حالا فهرست پیمانه ای نوشتی؟
من عاشق جودیم!
جودی یه دختر کلاس سومیِ شیطون، خلاقیه که همیشه سعی میکنه بهترین خودش باشه!
مهم نیست که چه اتفاقی میوفته یا چه مشکلاتی سر راهش هستند، جودی به هدفش ایمان داره و کلی تلاش میکنه تا به هدفش برسه!
یادمه اولین مجموعه جودی دمدمی رو تابستون کلاس سوم (۱۰ سالگی) خوندم و امروز تو آخرین روزای ۲۰ سالگی آخرین مجموعهاش (تا اینجا *_*) رو خوندم!
#چالش_تغییرات_ده_ساله :دی
اما باید اعتراف کنم این آخری چندان به دل من ننشست، راستش یه سری بخشهاش رو ترجمه کرده بودند که ما تو قواعدمون نداریم! و این باعث میشد چندان نشه باهاش ارتباط برقرار کرد :(
اما جدی! جودی رو به همهی دخترای دبستانی هدیه بدید، مطمئنن دوست خوبی میشه براشون و میتونه به کتاب خوندن علاقه مندشون کنه ^_^
تا حالا به نوشتن آرزوهات، قبل از پر شدن پیمانه عمرت فکر کردی؟
تا حالا فهرست پیمانه ای نوشتی؟
من عاشق جودیم!
جودی یه دختر کلاس سومیِ شیطون، خلاقیه که همیشه سعی میکنه بهترین خودش باشه!
مهم نیست که چه اتفاقی میوفته یا چه مشکلاتی سر راهش هستند، جودی به هدفش ایمان داره و کلی تلاش میکنه تا به هدفش برسه!
یادمه اولین مجموعه جودی دمدمی رو تابستون کلاس سوم (۱۰ سالگی) خوندم و امروز تو آخرین روزای ۲۰ سالگی آخرین مجموعهاش (تا اینجا *_*) رو خوندم!
#چالش_تغییرات_ده_ساله :دی
اما باید اعتراف کنم این آخری چندان به دل من ننشست، راستش یه سری بخشهاش رو ترجمه کرده بودند که ما تو قواعدمون نداریم! و این باعث میشد چندان نشه باهاش ارتباط برقرار کرد :(
اما جدی! جودی رو به همهی دخترای دبستانی هدیه بدید، مطمئنن دوست خوبی میشه براشون و میتونه به کتاب خوندن علاقه مندشون کنه ^_^
July 21, 2016
Originally posted on Beauty and the Bean Boots
Judy Moody’s infamous moods will never kick the bucket.
In the thirteenth book in the popular series by Megan McDonald, Judy Moody gets a double rare idea from her Grandma Lou. She creates a bucket list of everything that she hopes to accomplish before starting fourth grade. From doing a cartwheel to visiting Antarctica (even though she only has a little over $30), Judy sets off on another moody adventure.
Just last week I read my favorite book in the entire Judy Moody series, Judy Moody Declares Independence. I loved that addition to the series because although Judy kept true to her personality, she also grew as a character and became more responsible. I actually rated that book five out of five stars. Unfortunately, this book received a lower rating from me for several reasons.
First off, I was disappointed to see that all the maturity Judy gained seemed non-existent until the very end of this book. Earlier in the series, Judy committed herself to always brushing her hair, completing her household chores, and even being nice to her younger brother. In The Bucket List, Judy demanded even more allowance even though she invented a hairbrush that didn’t actually brush her hair, neglected her daily chores, and was unnecessarily mean to her younger brother.
I also felt that the plot was very disjointed. It reminded me a lot of The NOT Bummer Summer book where Judy is checking off a list to compete with her friends. Everything Judy did related to her list, but none of the things she did every came off as very exciting like it they did in The NOT Bummer Summer. Yes, Judy Moody is meant to have moods, but she whined about everything in this book which ruined all of her experiences and the reader’s experience as well.
Another disappointment with this book were the side characters. I was fine with old favorites just having cameos since they really didn’t have any significance in this particular story. However, it seemed characters like the future dog owner and her father’s back story were just thrown in and loosely moved the story along.
Even though I did have a few negatives, I also enjoyed a couple aspects of this story. Even though I wish we saw Grandma Lou more in the story, I really liked seeing Judy’s relationship with someone else in her family. I think a lot of children would relate to how Judy felt about her grandmother. Also, we get to see a more sympathetic side of Judy with her grandmother. In the end, Judy makes a selfless decision, which is double rare for her, to help her grandmother achieve a dream.
While I thought this book was okay, it is definitely not my favorite in the Judy Moody series. Since I liked Judy’s relationship with her grandmother, but felt the character growth, plot, and side characters were lacking, I give this book three out of five stars.
I received Judy Moody and the Bucket List from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Judy Moody’s infamous moods will never kick the bucket.
In the thirteenth book in the popular series by Megan McDonald, Judy Moody gets a double rare idea from her Grandma Lou. She creates a bucket list of everything that she hopes to accomplish before starting fourth grade. From doing a cartwheel to visiting Antarctica (even though she only has a little over $30), Judy sets off on another moody adventure.
Just last week I read my favorite book in the entire Judy Moody series, Judy Moody Declares Independence. I loved that addition to the series because although Judy kept true to her personality, she also grew as a character and became more responsible. I actually rated that book five out of five stars. Unfortunately, this book received a lower rating from me for several reasons.
First off, I was disappointed to see that all the maturity Judy gained seemed non-existent until the very end of this book. Earlier in the series, Judy committed herself to always brushing her hair, completing her household chores, and even being nice to her younger brother. In The Bucket List, Judy demanded even more allowance even though she invented a hairbrush that didn’t actually brush her hair, neglected her daily chores, and was unnecessarily mean to her younger brother.
I also felt that the plot was very disjointed. It reminded me a lot of The NOT Bummer Summer book where Judy is checking off a list to compete with her friends. Everything Judy did related to her list, but none of the things she did every came off as very exciting like it they did in The NOT Bummer Summer. Yes, Judy Moody is meant to have moods, but she whined about everything in this book which ruined all of her experiences and the reader’s experience as well.
Another disappointment with this book were the side characters. I was fine with old favorites just having cameos since they really didn’t have any significance in this particular story. However, it seemed characters like the future dog owner and her father’s back story were just thrown in and loosely moved the story along.
Even though I did have a few negatives, I also enjoyed a couple aspects of this story. Even though I wish we saw Grandma Lou more in the story, I really liked seeing Judy’s relationship with someone else in her family. I think a lot of children would relate to how Judy felt about her grandmother. Also, we get to see a more sympathetic side of Judy with her grandmother. In the end, Judy makes a selfless decision, which is double rare for her, to help her grandmother achieve a dream.
While I thought this book was okay, it is definitely not my favorite in the Judy Moody series. Since I liked Judy’s relationship with her grandmother, but felt the character growth, plot, and side characters were lacking, I give this book three out of five stars.
I received Judy Moody and the Bucket List from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2017
I received a digital ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for this review. Judy Moody books are good to transition emerging readers more comfortably into longer chapter books. They are aimed at readers who have outgrown Junie B. Jones. I also think these books remind me a little bit of Ramona Quimby from the popular series by Beverly Cleary.
In this installment, Junie gets a look at her grandmother's Bucket List. Once she gets over her dismay at the implications of this type of list, she decides to make her own list of things she wants to accomplish before she goes to fourth grade. Among the items on her list are learning to do a cartwheel, learning a musical instrument, going to Antarctica, and riding a horse. Some items are easier than others, but Judy is up to the challenge!
I like that Judy has made a list of goals. She's very focused on achieving them. Grandma gently reminds her to be patient, because the whole point of this sort of list is to enjoy the progress and journey toward reaching the goals. It's important to have fun working through the items.
I also like that she learns to focus on others, instead of just herself. Grandma's been working on raising money to help buy children's books for the local library. This inspires Judy to want to help others, too.
I like this book because kids enjoy reading this series. They learn reading skills right along with Judy; in this book she has difficulty learning how to use contractions. But they also can take away great messages about patience and sharing, while enjoying the humor of a precocious third grader.
In this installment, Junie gets a look at her grandmother's Bucket List. Once she gets over her dismay at the implications of this type of list, she decides to make her own list of things she wants to accomplish before she goes to fourth grade. Among the items on her list are learning to do a cartwheel, learning a musical instrument, going to Antarctica, and riding a horse. Some items are easier than others, but Judy is up to the challenge!
I like that Judy has made a list of goals. She's very focused on achieving them. Grandma gently reminds her to be patient, because the whole point of this sort of list is to enjoy the progress and journey toward reaching the goals. It's important to have fun working through the items.
I also like that she learns to focus on others, instead of just herself. Grandma's been working on raising money to help buy children's books for the local library. This inspires Judy to want to help others, too.
I like this book because kids enjoy reading this series. They learn reading skills right along with Judy; in this book she has difficulty learning how to use contractions. But they also can take away great messages about patience and sharing, while enjoying the humor of a precocious third grader.
August 2, 2016
Cute!
May 27, 2018
2.5 🌟
Is this me or the book?
Is this me or the book?
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November 14, 2019I think that book was great it is a wonderful book for kids that love to read about achievements and having a hard time achieving their goals it is very fun to see Judy get jealous of other kids that have a bucket list oh you don’t know what’s a bucket list a bucket list is something very common that judy takes about what she wants to achieve for example driving a car if she does that or so she will check it of her bucket list
March 8, 2022
به پیشنهاد یک دختر کتابخوان ۱۳ ساله، این کتاب رو برای ۴ تا از ژیمناستهای کوچکم سفارش دادم و قبل از هدیه دادن، شروع به مطالعهش کردم. هر چی داستان جلوتر میرفت، بیشتر خودم رو سرزنش میکردم که این کتاب مناسب سن بچههای کوچولوی من نیست، ولی صفحه ۱۳۶ و اشاره به ژیمناستیک، قوت قلبی شد برام که از هدیهم راضی باشم.
امیدوارم ژیمناستای کتابخون شادی باشن همیشه.
امیدوارم ژیمناستای کتابخون شادی باشن همیشه.
May 27, 2019
One of my favorite Judy Moodys so far. I love her sweet relationship with her grandmother.
September 18, 2022
ترجمه فارسیش رو خوندم و وای که چقدر بوی کودکی میداد 💔
August 2, 2016
This is a great addition to the adventures of Judy and Stink! My seven year old has all the Judy Moody books and she loves them. This one is no exception. Judy finds her grandmother's bucket list and it inspires her to make her own list, which she hopes to complete before she starts fourth grade. I would recommend this book (and the others) to all fans of the series, or anyone looking to get their child started reading chapter books. I received this as a free ARC from Candlewick Press on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2016
A cute beginning chapter book, although the language and sentence structure seems to be a little more advanced. Definitely a good choice for younger readers with a good reading skills but a bit less stamina. Judy is a pretty realistic kid, who has a number of supportive adults in her life. Her relationship with her little brother seems pretty realistic, as well. I appreciated the little vocabulary and grammar lessons hidden in the story. A fun read.
April 21, 2017
I listen to this book with my daughter she thinks it was terrific
May 24, 2016
How is Judy only up to No. 13? Seems more like 65.
Picked up at Book Expo.
Picked up at Book Expo.
November 4, 2016
Our queen of the lists finds a bucket list, and you can already guess what will happen now!
Yep, Judy wants to know everything about a bucket list, she makes one of her own, and tries to cross off everything. But she is also learning a lesson about bucket lists. It is not about the crossing off, but it is about the journey towards it, having fun reaching it, feeling accomplished.
I also did feel sorry for Judy, she really thought her grandma might die if she completed her list. Of course people told her that wouldn't happen, but then I can imagine why Judy would feel that way. Her grandma is a bit older, and seeing her go through a list of things she wants to do before she kicks the bucket.... Her solution to it was hilarious, and also very sweet, and I am sure grandma will have a nice laugh out of it, maybe even hug Judy tightly because she knows what Judy thought when she made that solution.
Of course we have enough sibling rivalry, though there are times they get along great. It is a change from what I normally read about siblings in books. Either they always get along, or they never do.
Stink never ceases to amaze me with how much he knows about stuff. In this book we also see a whole lot of smartness.
I do wonder why the parents weren't a bit stricter on Stink. He kept butting in during conversations about Judy, or even ran towards his parents when Judy did something. I would have loved to see them say something to Stink about it. That he should just leave them to do the parenting.
Back to the bucket list. I just adored it and all the things Judy wanted to do. Some stuff was just impossible (going to Antarctica), but a lot of things were perfectly doable, easy, and fun. I loved how she learned new things, how she found out the joy of learning new things. How she tried her best to get the things crossed off.
The book is also stuffed to the brim with illustrations, and I just love them so much. I love that you can see how much better the artist got. The illustrations in this one are top-notch!
All in all, I do hope we will see more Judy Moody books. It is a bit sad that it takes longer for them to come out, I do hope this doesn't mean that the series will stop. :(
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
Yep, Judy wants to know everything about a bucket list, she makes one of her own, and tries to cross off everything. But she is also learning a lesson about bucket lists. It is not about the crossing off, but it is about the journey towards it, having fun reaching it, feeling accomplished.
I also did feel sorry for Judy, she really thought her grandma might die if she completed her list. Of course people told her that wouldn't happen, but then I can imagine why Judy would feel that way. Her grandma is a bit older, and seeing her go through a list of things she wants to do before she kicks the bucket.... Her solution to it was hilarious, and also very sweet, and I am sure grandma will have a nice laugh out of it, maybe even hug Judy tightly because she knows what Judy thought when she made that solution.
Of course we have enough sibling rivalry, though there are times they get along great. It is a change from what I normally read about siblings in books. Either they always get along, or they never do.
Stink never ceases to amaze me with how much he knows about stuff. In this book we also see a whole lot of smartness.
I do wonder why the parents weren't a bit stricter on Stink. He kept butting in during conversations about Judy, or even ran towards his parents when Judy did something. I would have loved to see them say something to Stink about it. That he should just leave them to do the parenting.
Back to the bucket list. I just adored it and all the things Judy wanted to do. Some stuff was just impossible (going to Antarctica), but a lot of things were perfectly doable, easy, and fun. I loved how she learned new things, how she found out the joy of learning new things. How she tried her best to get the things crossed off.
The book is also stuffed to the brim with illustrations, and I just love them so much. I love that you can see how much better the artist got. The illustrations in this one are top-notch!
All in all, I do hope we will see more Judy Moody books. It is a bit sad that it takes longer for them to come out, I do hope this doesn't mean that the series will stop. :(
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
April 27, 2023
Judy Moody and the Bucket List by Megan McDonald is a delightful children's book that tells the story of Judy Moody, a girl who loves making lists. In this book, Judy is on a mission to create her own bucket list after reading about her grandma's adventures. She wants to accomplish everything on her list before she enters fourth grade.
Throughout the book, readers follow Judy as she comes up with various ideas for her bucket list, including mastering the cartwheel, riding a horse, and even visiting Antarctica. Although some of her goals seem a bit out of reach, Judy is determined to accomplish them all.
One of the best things about this book is how relatable it is for kids. Many kids can relate to Judy's struggles with mastering the cartwheel and dealing with injuries. Her passion for adventure and making lists will likely resonate with young readers.
Another great thing about this book is the underlying message about the importance of having goals. Judy learns that she needs to have a plan before she can accomplish anything. This is an important lesson for kids, as it teaches them the value of setting goals and working hard to achieve them.
Overall, Judy Moody and the Bucket List is a fantastic book for kids. It's funny, relatable, inspiring, and encourages kids to dream big and pursue their goals. I highly recommend this book to any young reader looking for a fun and engaging story.
I hope this review has piqued your interest in the book I've just discussed. If you're interested in reading it for yourself, be sure to click the link below to purchase your own copy. You won't regret it!
https://amzn.to/412HudQ
I've got so much to say about this book. Watch my full review on my YouTube channel to hear all my thoughts.
https://youtu.be/tvXzU3VeW_c
Throughout the book, readers follow Judy as she comes up with various ideas for her bucket list, including mastering the cartwheel, riding a horse, and even visiting Antarctica. Although some of her goals seem a bit out of reach, Judy is determined to accomplish them all.
One of the best things about this book is how relatable it is for kids. Many kids can relate to Judy's struggles with mastering the cartwheel and dealing with injuries. Her passion for adventure and making lists will likely resonate with young readers.
Another great thing about this book is the underlying message about the importance of having goals. Judy learns that she needs to have a plan before she can accomplish anything. This is an important lesson for kids, as it teaches them the value of setting goals and working hard to achieve them.
Overall, Judy Moody and the Bucket List is a fantastic book for kids. It's funny, relatable, inspiring, and encourages kids to dream big and pursue their goals. I highly recommend this book to any young reader looking for a fun and engaging story.
I hope this review has piqued your interest in the book I've just discussed. If you're interested in reading it for yourself, be sure to click the link below to purchase your own copy. You won't regret it!
https://amzn.to/412HudQ
I've got so much to say about this book. Watch my full review on my YouTube channel to hear all my thoughts.
https://youtu.be/tvXzU3VeW_c
April 1, 2018
Summary:
Judy is searching through her grandma's purse when she stumbles upon a piece of paper. The paper has a list of things the grandma wants to do before she dies. Judy gets worried about if her grandma is dying or not. Her grandma reassures her that it won't be any time soon and then goes on to explain what a bucket list is. Judy is fascinated by this idea so she goes on to make her own bucket list. She tries to invent things, learns what contractions are to get three stickers, rides a horse, plays the drums, and tries to save money to go to Antartica. Her grandma talks to Judy about how things on bucket lists can also help others. Judy decides that she wants to help her local library by donating the money she saved for Antartica. The book ends with Judy being able to cross more things off her bucket list, including learning how to cart wheel.
1. How would you rewrite the story from Stink's point of view?
2. Why was it better that Judy donated her money to her local library rather than keeping it for the trip to Antartica?
3. What is your opinion of a bucket list and why do you feel that way?
4. Create your own bucket list.
5. What choice would you have made if one of your family members talked to you about helping others?
McDonald, M. (2016). Judy Moody and the Bucket List. Berryville, VA: Candlewick Press.
Judy is searching through her grandma's purse when she stumbles upon a piece of paper. The paper has a list of things the grandma wants to do before she dies. Judy gets worried about if her grandma is dying or not. Her grandma reassures her that it won't be any time soon and then goes on to explain what a bucket list is. Judy is fascinated by this idea so she goes on to make her own bucket list. She tries to invent things, learns what contractions are to get three stickers, rides a horse, plays the drums, and tries to save money to go to Antartica. Her grandma talks to Judy about how things on bucket lists can also help others. Judy decides that she wants to help her local library by donating the money she saved for Antartica. The book ends with Judy being able to cross more things off her bucket list, including learning how to cart wheel.
1. How would you rewrite the story from Stink's point of view?
2. Why was it better that Judy donated her money to her local library rather than keeping it for the trip to Antartica?
3. What is your opinion of a bucket list and why do you feel that way?
4. Create your own bucket list.
5. What choice would you have made if one of your family members talked to you about helping others?
McDonald, M. (2016). Judy Moody and the Bucket List. Berryville, VA: Candlewick Press.
August 21, 2023
I grabbed this one from the Sant Cugat library. I often feel guilty that my kids didn't have access to tons of the primary-school age books in English that I did as a kid. I'm too old to know Judy Moody from childhood, but it has a familiar vibe: manic, punny, cram in a school lesson, over-the-top cultural references young kids won't know, nuclear family does corny mom and dad stuff, mention the pets and the sibling (brother 'Stink'), fun grandma...
If your kid loves them, read them, if they don't, skip them no worries.
Reading level is M, so about second grade read-to-self, but that said, I assume the OK Corral jokes and musical instrument jive talk mostly goes over young readers' heads. It would be super-tedious to explain as a read aloud selection.
cw: mortality, kind of? Bucket lists are about things to do before you 'kick the bucket' i.e. die. Strangely this grandma confidently assures her granddaughter she isn't going to die soon. (Judy's list is about goal setting before 4th grade.)
TESOL comment: lots of wordplay here that wouldn't be straightforward. Also includes a section on contractions that "doesn't/ does not" explain them well and the main character describes learning them as babyish/a 2nd grade thing. Not great. Illustrations by Peter H. Reynolds are cute/useful.
If your kid loves them, read them, if they don't, skip them no worries.
Reading level is M, so about second grade read-to-self, but that said, I assume the OK Corral jokes and musical instrument jive talk mostly goes over young readers' heads. It would be super-tedious to explain as a read aloud selection.
cw: mortality, kind of? Bucket lists are about things to do before you 'kick the bucket' i.e. die. Strangely this grandma confidently assures her granddaughter she isn't going to die soon. (Judy's list is about goal setting before 4th grade.)
TESOL comment: lots of wordplay here that wouldn't be straightforward. Also includes a section on contractions that "doesn't/ does not" explain them well and the main character describes learning them as babyish/a 2nd grade thing. Not great. Illustrations by Peter H. Reynolds are cute/useful.
August 28, 2018
Several different feelings went through me as I read the 13th Judy Moody book. First off I did enjoy some of the humor and good Judy Moody feelings, but then when the focus became more about her list, and stopped feeling somewhat like a Judy Moody book it got a little disappointing. The charm and what felt like spontaneous Judy Moody quirks and humor from the earlier books didn't feel all that much here. Judy is nearing the end of third grade in this book, and while there were some fun things to focus on in this installment of Judy Moody's life, some of the words and actions didn't feel like Judy Moody.
The over use of the word Awesome-sauce seemed to be a bit stale after awhile. It wasn't as exciting or charming to see as Judy Moody's use of the word "Rare" for anything she found exciting. It's as if Megan Mcdonald didn't know how to bring Judy Moody out of 3rd grade to 4th or almost so, and still keep it feeling like the Judy Moody we come to know and love. The last line of the book gave me a somewhat emotional feel as it did feel like the close of a chapter of Judy Moody's life. It also had a feeling of could there be anymore Judy Moody books or is the end of the series? Only time will tell if anymore adventures of Judy Moody await us further down the line.
The over use of the word Awesome-sauce seemed to be a bit stale after awhile. It wasn't as exciting or charming to see as Judy Moody's use of the word "Rare" for anything she found exciting. It's as if Megan Mcdonald didn't know how to bring Judy Moody out of 3rd grade to 4th or almost so, and still keep it feeling like the Judy Moody we come to know and love. The last line of the book gave me a somewhat emotional feel as it did feel like the close of a chapter of Judy Moody's life. It also had a feeling of could there be anymore Judy Moody books or is the end of the series? Only time will tell if anymore adventures of Judy Moody await us further down the line.
December 12, 2017
When Judy finds a list in her grandma’s purse, she soon finds out all about what a bucket list is and is quick on her way to making one herself. She sets out on a list of things to do before she gets to the fourth grade. Things start off slow, but as she makes her way things get easier. This novel, not only shows Judy learning about setting goals for herself, but it shows the challenges she has to overcome to get to the end result. This was fun and exciting to see Judy so excited about different things. The character growth in Judy was so well done; it was subtle, but done in the best way possible. It was also really good to see the characters, mainly her grandma, around her be very supportive of her, and to see the relationships blossom, mostly between her and Stink. The plot was engaging and inspiring; the writing was fun and inviting. It felt like this was an ending to Judy as she’s leaving the third grade behind to start new adventures in the fourth grade, and McDonald made it feel very final. Maybe we’ll see more of Judy one day.
September 22, 2018
Being in Grade 3 is a magical time as the possibilities of the world are laid out ahead. So when Judy Moody finds a bucket list in her Grandma Lou's purse, she decides to chart her own to-do list that must be completed before entering Grade 4.
Judy's attempts at conquering the tasks she sets out for herself are met with roadblocks and successes, but always humour. Making it to Antarctica might have to wait a while and riding a hinny (half horse-half donkey) is more fun than originally thought, but Judy Moody does learn to march to her own drum when choosing a musical instrument. "Judy Moody was a hip cat. Judy Moody was a cool cat. Judy Moody was her own one-man band. One-girl band!"
A delightful read aimed at readers moving into chapter books. 3.5 stars
Judy's attempts at conquering the tasks she sets out for herself are met with roadblocks and successes, but always humour. Making it to Antarctica might have to wait a while and riding a hinny (half horse-half donkey) is more fun than originally thought, but Judy Moody does learn to march to her own drum when choosing a musical instrument. "Judy Moody was a hip cat. Judy Moody was a cool cat. Judy Moody was her own one-man band. One-girl band!"
A delightful read aimed at readers moving into chapter books. 3.5 stars
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February 7, 2020The book Judy Moody And The Bucket List By Megan McDonald is a great book that allows you to go on an Adventure with Judy. On her adventure she tries to do all the new things on her bucket list. Judy’s Grandmother; Grandma Lou told her about her bucket list and that inspired Judy to make one as well. As Judy tries to accomplish everything on her list, she goes through some problems too. But luckily, she manages to get through most of her list. The book shows us how in hard times we don’t give up. We have to keep on trying. That's why the book is funny and entertaining, and that’s why you should read it too.
May 9, 2017
When Judy finds out her Grandma Lou has a bucket list made up of crazy fun things she wants to do in her lifetime, Judy decides to make her own list of things to accomplish before 4th grade. She wants to do big things (like go to Antarctica) and small things (like learn to do a cartwheel). How many will she check off her list?
Series Review | TpT Store | Pinterest
Series Review | TpT Store | Pinterest
February 16, 2019
So I read this because I LOVED the series when I was around 7 or 8, and... well... nostalgia, am I right?
I liked it but I don't think it was really an improvement from the former books. I understand how Megan McDonald is trying to factor in more diverse characters (hence Izzy), but none of them ever make a huge appearance or difference in the story. Still, it's better than nothing.
I hope to continue the series for nostalgic reasons, even if I don't enjoy them as much as I did in my earlier years.
I liked it but I don't think it was really an improvement from the former books. I understand how Megan McDonald is trying to factor in more diverse characters (hence Izzy), but none of them ever make a huge appearance or difference in the story. Still, it's better than nothing.
I hope to continue the series for nostalgic reasons, even if I don't enjoy them as much as I did in my earlier years.
January 3, 2018
Judy Moody comes across her grandmother's bucket list and decides to make her own list. She has some fairly attainable items, such as riding a horse, as well as some more involved goals, like taking a trip to Antarctica. In order to cross off some of the things on her bucket list, she must raise money and elicit the help of others. The book is a good way for kids to think about adventures they would like to have as well as goals they would like to attain.
May 5, 2018
I won a copy of Judy Moody and the Bucket List by Megan McDonald, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds, from Goodreads.
Join Judy as she attempts to complete the items on her "bucket list" before entering Fourth Grade in Judy Moody and the Bucket List by Megan McDonald. This funny story with cheerful illustrations by Peter H. Reynolds quickly engages young readers who will want to read the story again and again.
Join Judy as she attempts to complete the items on her "bucket list" before entering Fourth Grade in Judy Moody and the Bucket List by Megan McDonald. This funny story with cheerful illustrations by Peter H. Reynolds quickly engages young readers who will want to read the story again and again.
September 6, 2018
I got this book from NetGalley a while ago and finally picked it up to read it. I enjoyed the book for how simple it was. I had never read any Judy Moody before because I always thought it was too childish for me and clearly I was correct. The story was cute but not anything more than that. I will say that reading this did not make me want to go pick up any more. I see how she's a cute character for little kids because she seems fun and free but it doesnt transfer well to any other audience.
November 4, 2020
من خیلی این رو دوست داشتم و همین طور از مگان مک دونالد که این کتاب رو نوشته ممنونم
من این کتابو خیلی دوست داشتم و خیلی چیز ها ازش یاد گرفتم جودی توی این قسمتش واقعا برای فهرست ها کلافه شده بود و من هم توش یاد گرفتم که چطور فهرست پیمانه ای درست کنم
حالا فهرست پیمانه ای چیه رو من پیشنهاد میکنم خودتون این داستان رو بخونید و بعد متوجه میشید که فهرست پیمانه ای چی هست و میتونید خودتون فهرست درست کنید
من این کتابو خیلی دوست داشتم و خیلی چیز ها ازش یاد گرفتم جودی توی این قسمتش واقعا برای فهرست ها کلافه شده بود و من هم توش یاد گرفتم که چطور فهرست پیمانه ای درست کنم
حالا فهرست پیمانه ای چیه رو من پیشنهاد میکنم خودتون این داستان رو بخونید و بعد متوجه میشید که فهرست پیمانه ای چی هست و میتونید خودتون فهرست درست کنید
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2017
Its very good because she is very good at riding horses but she was disappointed because she had stanley the pony and her little brother, Stink, got to ride the horse. When it was her turn, he didnt let her have a turn, but in the end he did let her have a turn
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