Danitra Brown, Class Clown    by Nikki Grimes & E. B. Lewis Order:  USA  Can HarperCollins, 2005 (2005) Hardcover     Reviewed by Hilary Williamson In this third book in a series, two best friends - extrovert Danitra Brown and shy Zuri Jackson - react differently to heading back to class. A series of verse vignettes reflect Zuri's feelings about various aspects of school life, and about her friend Danitra. Though the verses are occasionally cumbersome, they convey beautifully how big a difference a friend's support can make. Zuri worries about a new teacher, 'hard math', and bullies, till 'Danitra hops in, grinning / and all my gloomy thoughts go spinning.' Though their new teacher, Miss Volchek, separates the pair, Danitra is still always there when Zuri needs help. And Miss Volchek surprises Zuri with her good qualities too. This inspiring and heartwarming account of a 'Matchless' friendship will reassure kids worried about back to school - as long as they have at least one good friend returning with them. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews