THE JOHN HANCOCK CLUB

Borden’s latest school-related book tackles the excitement and nervousness that surrounds every third-grader learning to write in cursive. Sean is particularly nervous, as he already finds school difficult. But his fears are allayed as the class learns letter by letter, practicing until they achieve perfection. Mrs. Tovani motivates her class with tantalizing hints about induction into the John Hancock Club for all those with beautiful penmanship. As the class gets closer to mastering cursive, they begin learning all about who John Hancock was, researching facts and, of course, writing them down in their neatest handwriting. Then comes the wonderful day when they sign the paper with a feather quill and ink, thereby officially becoming members. Borden and Gustavson each capture perfectly the combination of emotions of a new school year. The familiar watercolor illustrations will resound with students everywhere. A good addition to themes on school. (Picture book. 7-10)