"Mr. Terupt Falls Again" by Rob Buyea follows the first, debut book from this author, "Because of Mr. Terupt." This story, like the first, is told from the various points of view of the students who are looking forward to another year with their favorite teacher, Mr. Terupt.
It should be strongly urged that those who have not read the first book do so before attempting the second. There are too many situations that are not fully explained which will be confusing to anyone jumping in with this book. In fact, it's not a bad idea to reread the first book before reading this one.
Somehow, this book was a bit less satisfying than the first book. In that one, the reader was grabbed by the shirt and involved in the class and the various personalities of the students in the class. When Mr. Terupt was hurt, the reader couldn't wait to find out what happened next.
This book lacks that sense of urgency. It's paced a bit more slowly, and while there are emotional issues that arise (some a continuation of situations from the first book), they don't seem quite as life-threatening or angst-producing as the problems in the first one.
However, anyone who enjoyed the first book will greatly appreciate the opportunity to spend more time with the believable, well-narrated characters. Sometimes the same event is told through two or more lenses, giving the reader a greater perspective than if only one narrator had been used. Loose ends are tied up, Mr. Terupt does, indeed, fall (in love). It's a great book to use to work on voice and character study.
Please note: This review is based on the final hardcover picture book on loan from the library, for review purposes.
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