Fig Pudding

Fig Pudding
by Ralph Fletcher


In this work of fictional personal narratives, 11 year old Cliff covers all of the emotions from laughter, tears, shame, and joy.   These stories can be used to teach the ideas trait in writing, especially for expanding details.  Examples of exploded moments, precise details, dialogue, and thought shots are found throughout the book.

Esio Trot

Esio Trot 
by Roald Dahl


Esio Trot is a humorous romance novel.  Mr. Hoppy loves his neighbor Mrs. Silver.  But instead of loving Mr. Hoppy, Mrs. Silver loves her pet tortoise Alfie.  When Mr. Hoppy discovers that Mrs. Silver would reward anyone whom could get her dear little Alfie to grow, he goes into action. Dishonest action.


Mr. Hoppy devises a devious plan to convince Mrs. Silver that Alfie is growing.  His plan is ingenious, a fake chant and a slight of hand, but will he be able to pull it off without getting caught?  If he is successful, will Mrs. Silver reward Mr. Hoppy with what he truly desires, her love?  And what will become of little Alife?  Esio Trot is filled with moments that entice you to predict what will happen next. Read it to see what happens.


First published in 1990

Reading Level: Slightly below fifth grade

Genre: Romance/realistic fiction (everything could technically happen)

Locations: classroom library, school library, Grace A. Dow, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble.