Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick

by Roz Rosenbluth
Illustrated by Maurie J. Manning


       Ruben Plotnick is the coolest kid in David's class. He's zany. He's funny. And now he wants to go to David's house. David's thrilled, but worried - how will Ruben react to David's Grandma Rosie whose behavior is more than a little unpredictable? Roz Rosenbluth's story is touching and delightful but it was Maurie Manning's lively yet sensitive illustrations that really made me fall in love with Grandma Rosie and the good hearted Ruben. Though David's parents may be turning sad eyes toward Grandma Rosie, we see through the children's eyes the joyful woman who loves to dance. It's a lovely book about friendship and seeing people as they really are. Kids will think it's terrific fun - but I warn you, parents, you just might get a little misty as you read. The best books do that to you.