Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick [Hardcover]

Roz Rosenbluth (Author), Maurie J. Manning (Illustrator)

Book Description

Age Level: 5 and up | Grade Level: K and up

When the coolest kid in the class drops by David's house after school, David is worried about how popular, zany Ruben Plotnick will react upon meeting unpredictable Grandma Rosie. Will he make fun of her to his classmates? Will he imitate her whispery voice? What will he do if Grandma Rosie suddenly wants to dance? To his surprise, and relief, David learns that although Ruben may be a joker, he has an instant rapport with Grandma Rosie and accepts her odd behavior. In fact, when Grandma Rosie calls out, "Nate, let's waltz!" Ruben gallantly and proudly dances around the kitchen with her. This heartwarming story of senility and school-age embarrassment reveals the importance of looking beneath the surface to really get to know someone. By accepting Grandma with all of her quirks, Ruben shows that he has a warm heart and can be a true friend.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Kindergarten-Grade 3–An engaging story about family, friendship, and the challenges of dementia. Ruben Plotnick is the cool kid everyone at school wants to know. He's funny and a little wacky, but he always knows the right answers. He's smart. For some unexplained reason, he decides to befriend David, asking to go to his house to do schoolwork. David is thrilled–and worried. His Grandma Rosie has become so unpredictable. Will she do something to embarrass him? What will The Plotnick think? David need not have worried. The Plotnick proves himself to be much more than a smart clown. He has grace and he has heart. He relates immediately to someone who dances to her own beat, displaying maturity and confidence far beyond his age. And he shows David how to be compassionate and remain true to himself. The digital illustrations add amusing background details to keep the story light. Although the plot is awkward at the beginning, the story has a very sweet conclusion. This is an excellent choice for a group read-aloud or to help a child deal with fears of family embarrassment.–Mary Hazelton, Elementary Schools in Warren & Waldoboro, ME
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From the Publisher

Named the New York Library Association (NYLA) Children's Book of the Season, Winter 2006

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 5 and up
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Flashlight Press (September 28, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0972922555
• ISBN-13: 978-0972922555
• Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.7 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,183,489 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Timely subject! Unforgettable character!, August 24, 2007

By 

Betty L. Dravis "BETTY DRAVIS, author/reviewer" (Silicon Valley, CA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick (Hardcover)

GETTING TO KNOW RUBEN PLOTNICK is one of those rare books that has "high concept" ... a term I hear a lot from publishers looking for special books, books that could become best-sellers and/or classics.

Author Roz Rosenbluth chose a subject that's on people's minds more and more in recent years: dementia. She wove a charming story around Ruben Plotnick, a lovable, yet often wacky, boy with an endearing name and a heart of gold. When Ruben meets his new friend's Grandma Rosie, Ruben teaches David a thing or two about compassion ... and much more.

What does Grandma Rosie do to embarrass her grandson? How does Ruben handle it? What does the reader learn from this story? All those questions are answered as the story unfolds and follows its natural course to a sweet ending.

This sensitive and clever story is about friendship and real family values. I totally agree with the National Institute on Aging when they say the story deals with "what dementia looks like from a child's perspective."

The delightful illustrations by Maurice J. Manning bring the story alive, adding to the overall charm. Anyone who loves their aging parents or grandparents should read this book. It's a heart-warming slice of American life in the new millennium.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fabulous!, October 6, 2005

By 

Nicole Soffin (New York, NY United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick (Hardcover)

What a wonderfully moving book. I don't have kids (yet), but I can't wait to so that I can share this terrific story with them. The story is definitely one that school-age kids can relate to, as it so perfectly captures that dreadful "I just want to fit in and not be noticed too much" stage. But it is even more moving for adults, as it so gently and beautifully addresses the feelings triggered by watching a loved one grow old. I can't recommend this enough.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars We loved this book!, September 28, 2005

By 

Choosy Mom - See all my reviews

This review is from: Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick (Hardcover)

All three of my children and I love this book! It is funny, and touching without being sappy. It has provided a basis for some interesting and important discussion in our family about peers, relatives and growing older. Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick appeals to each of my children (ages 4, 8 and 11 years) at a level they can undestand. This is definately a book to own. Highly recommended!