Review of Crenshaw

​ Crenshaw
Written by Katherine Applegate
Age Level:  8 – 12
Grade Level:  4 – 6

I read this book when it was brand-new, and it’s still one of my favorites. Jackson is about to be homeless again. He got through it back when he was 3, thanks to a little help from his imaginary friend, a cat named Crenshaw. Now that it’s happening again, Crenshaw is back, AND he’s bigger. Why? Jackson’s problems are bigger too.
 
In case you can’t check this book out right away, I’ll pass Crenshaw’s best advice onto you now – be honest with family and friends. It works! I can’t give away the ending, but I’ll give you a hint . . . it’s happy!
FYI – Katharine got the idea from the 1950’s movie Harvie, starring Jimmie Stewart. Harvey is a 6 foot 3 inch tall invisible rabbit. If you’re curious, check out the movie. Katherine took that impossible idea, matched it up with homeless kids, then did research in a school for homeless children. Their stories are included in the book.
 
PS – Music is part of the family’s problem, and I love the way it becomes part of the solution. Read the book to find out how!

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