The Great Brain

Written by John D. Fitzgerald
Illustrated by Mercer Mayer

Grade:

4-7

ISBN-13:

978-0142400586

Publisher:

Puffin Books (2004)

Told in episodic chapters and narrated by the main character’s younger brother, this classic novel humorously recounts the antics of a young boy growing up in rural Utah. Generally self-serving and incredibly cunning, Tom Fitzgerald, or “The Great Brain”, is always searching for profit and adventure, and usually creating some sort of mischief. Although mostly humorous, several of Tom’s schemes result in serious consequences and present questions concerning friendship, honesty, kindness, respect, and prudence. A reflection of a bygone era and filled with humor and wit, this first in a series will give readers a chance to reflect on the virtue of an entertaining, self-made, and intelligent main character.