What's an Average Kid Like Me Doing Way Up Here?

by Ivy Ruckman

Norman finds he may be more than just an average seventh-grader when he and Mrs. Adelsack, an indomitable teacher, get into surprising situations in their efforts to save the school from closing

144 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 1983

About the author

Ivy Ruckman is the award-winning author of fourteen books, including No Way Out, for which she also wrote the screenplay. She is a former English teacher and creative writing instructor, and has written several short stories for young readers. Mrs. Ruckman lives in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Reviews

[Brianna M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I gave this book 3 stars because it talks about school a lot. I think people interested in school or saving their own school would be interested in this book. Every chapter has 2 words and their meanings. This book was more interesting when a student and teacher went and stayed on the top of the school. If you like books like this I recommend it to you then.

[Maya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Norman is soooo, well, NORMAL! His middle name is Middal. You couldn't get a more adverage 12 year old boy. But when his fathr leaves and his school is closing, his life is turned upside down, inside out. Norman decides it's time to take action!

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Norman, his fellow seventh graders, and their home economics teacher campaign to save Fortuna Middle School, which has been slated for closure by the school board.

[Elizabeth Gibbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This cute book, although not very realistic, is about how a young boy helps to save his school with the help of one of his teachers.

[Charly Troff (JustaReadingMama) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book when I read it in middle school.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an interesting book showing how regular kids can make a difference in a big community issue.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lukewarm reception on my part. The story is not a page turner nor is the writing stellar but the main character is fresh and funny. His dry wit shines through in his depictions of the dreadful onslaught of "teen angst."