Nothing But the Truth by Avi

This documentary novel is a great summer reading book for eighth graders. Philip Malloy, a ninth grader, can't do track because of a failing grade in English. Convinced that the teacher has it out for him, he tries to get switched out of her class. Every morning, his school plays the national anthem. One day, Philip loudly hums along. Miss Narwin sends him out of class, since he was causing a disturbance. After a few more times, he is suspended. Philip's family reports it to the newspaper. Without long, the entire world sees the headline, "...Suspended for Being Patriotic," and it is very interesting to read about the chaos that follows.

I really like the format of the book. The true story is told through journal entries, dialogue and letters. This really helps to shorten the book, add background knowledge, and makes the plot really easy to follow. I also thought that it was very ironic how the entire time the school was obsessed with the budget. I think that switching back and forth between the two perspectives, the school and Philip, was a smart choice. At times, the book made me laugh, and I think you will enjoy reading about the experiences of this ninth grader. 

Really, the only thing I didn't like was the ending. The last sentence in the book was a huge surprise, and it will change everything you thought you knew about Philip, so whatever you do... DO NOT SKIP TO THE END! 

Title: Nothing But the Truth: A Documentary Novel

Author: Avi
Publisher: Turtleback Books
Pages: 240 pages
Series: No

Rating: 5 Stars
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