Judy Moody is the perfect protagonist for today's early chapter book readers. The curious, exuberant third-grader is smart but not a great speller; she loves science but is also artistic; she is caring but cranky; and she's honest. She is as multifaceted and complicated as the children who read about her.
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With an exciting series relaunch in April 2018, a whole new generation of readers can discover this plucky heroine. First published in 2000, there are now 34 million books about Judy and her little brother, Stink, in print worldwide, in twenty-eight languages. Written by Megan McDonald and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds, this award-winning series answers the current call for books that acknowledge the complicated emotional lives of children and help young readers understand that all children have times when they are upset, sad, and angry. Throughout her thirteen books, Judy feels those emotions - and more - and still thrives. She has been a detective, a doctor, and a college student; she's tackled recycling, the Revolutionary War, and life with a little brother. And she does it all with her signature courage, independent thinking, and fierce determination.
The fourteenth title in the series, Judy Moody and the Right Royal Tea Party, will be published in September 2018. With a royal baby due in April and a royal wedding in May, readers everywhere will be eager to learn about Judy's connection to Buckingham Palace.
A Conversation with Megan McDonald
The Judy Moody books have been in print for more than twenty years. (Congratulations!) What do you think accounts for their longevity?
I think readers love Judy Moody because of her moods - she's an everykid with a lot of ups and down and flaws and triumphs and disappointments, just like real life. Only funnier.
What made you decide to keep Judy Moody in third grade?
Third grade was my favorite year of elementary school. Third-graders are so smart and funny and imaginative... and moody! Just like Judy Moody.
What has surprised you the most about the feedback you've heard from kids?
It surprises me how kids of all ages universally relate to Judy's moods, flaws, and foibles. From parents and teachers, I'm continually delighted to hear that kids respond with joy to Judy's imagination and funny antics; the humor catapults even the most reluctant of readers into a lifelong love of reading.
What's next for Judy and Stink?
In the upcoming Judy Moody and the Right Royal Tea Party, Judy Moody is making a tree for a school project. Not a tree with leaves. Not a tree with acorns. A family tree! It's not long until she discovers that she just-might-may-be related to a queen! No lie!
For more information, visit www.judymoody.com.
