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Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1992

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Book Brief

Barbara Park

Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1992
Book Details
Pages

69

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Elementary School • Contemporary

Theme
Conflict

Fear

Childhood & Youth
Publication Year

1992

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

6-9 years

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Super Short Summary

Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus by Barbara Park and Denise Brunkus details the exciting first-day-of-school experience for a young child named Junie B. Jones. Junie B. faces various challenges with her class, teacher, and notably, her school bus, tackling them with humor and curiosity.

Playful

Humorous

Adventurous

Exciting

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus by Barbara Park and Denise Brunkus is praised for its humor and relatable portrayal of a kindergartener's perspective. Critics appreciate Junie B.'s lively voice and the book's engaging, comical illustrations. However, some note that Junie B.'s grammar and behavior may set a poor example for young readers. Overall, it is a beloved choice for early readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus?

Young readers who enjoy humorous and relatable stories about school life would love Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus. Fans of Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary or Ivy + Bean by Annie Barrows will find Junie B.'s adventurous spirit and quirky perspective endearing and entertaining.

Character List

Junie B. Jones

A spirited and assertive five-year-old girl who is exploring the challenges and adventures of starting kindergarten, she desires independence and seeks for her feelings and experiences to be respected by others.

Junie B.’s kindergarten teacher, she prioritizes maintaining order and quiet in the classroom, often overlooking Junie B.'s emotional needs.

Junie B.'s attentive yet initially dismissive parent, she ultimately responds constructively to Junie B.’s anxieties, demonstrating growth in understanding and support.

Book Details
Pages

69

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Elementary School • Contemporary

Theme
Conflict

Fear

Childhood & Youth
Publication Year

1992

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

6-9 years

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