Manolito Four-Eyes

"Grade 4–6—This is a translation of Manolito Gafotas, a contemporary novel for children in Spain that has also inspired feature films and television shows. All of the neighbors in the boy's Madrid suburb know the 10-year-old as Manolito Four-Eyes because he wears glasses with thick lenses. The story focuses on his everyday life with some of his favorite pals, such as "Big Ears" Lopez and his heartthrob, the "One-and-Only Susana," among others. Manolito's sociologist mother has concerns about his behavior so he spends some time telling the school psychologist his life story. To be sure, the protagonist is a wild, spunky, dramatic, comical sort of character sure to be popular with children, who will probably find him, in Manolito's own inimitable words, a "whole lotta cool." Lively cartoon illustrations are scattered throughout." —School Library Journal

"In this episodic chapter book, 10-year-old Manolito tells about his experiences at home, in school, and in his Madrid neighborhood. Described by his mother as “born talking,” Manolito brings his family and friends alive on the page through a chatty, first-person narrative in which he recounts events such as a punch from a bully who breaks his glasses, a visit from a demanding schoolmate named One-and-Only Susana, and a surprise birthday party for his beloved grandpa. And that occasion makes a fitting ending to the book, as Grandpa Nicolás, introduced in the introductory “Cast of Characters” as Manolito’s “unconditional ally,” proves to be an unconventional and often entertaining ally as well. Throughout the book, amusing drawings heighten the understated humor that brightens the story. Now available in “American English,” the book was first published in Spain in 1994 as part of a series about Manolito. Grades 4-6." —Booklist