The Jacket - by Andrew Clements (Paperback)

About the Book

A thought-provoking exploration of prejudice from the master of the school story. This timely, deceptively short and simple story will make readers look at the world around them in a new way. Illustrations.

Book Synopsis

Thief!

When Phil sees another kid wearing his brother's jacket, he assumes the jacket was stolen. It turns out he was wrong, and Phil has to ask himself the question: Would he have made the same assumption if the boy wearing the jacket hadn't been African American? And that question leads to others that reveal some unsettling truths about Phil's neighborhood, his family, and even himself.

Review Quotes

"Clements makes his point without didacticism--and with just the right amount of emotion."

"Disturbing . . . An excellent story to open honest group discussion."

About the Author

Andrew Clements (1949-2019) was the author of the enormously popular Frindle. More than 10 million copies of his books have been sold, and he was nominated for a multitude of state awards, including a Christopher Award and an Edgar Award. His popular works include About Average, Troublemaker, Extra Credit, Lost and Found, No Talking, Room One, Lunch Money, and more. He was also the author of the Benjamin Pratt & the Keepers of the School series. Find out more at AndrewClements.com.