Max for President

by Jarrett J. Krosoczka

Overview

Max thinks that he would like to be class president.

So does Kelly.

But there can only be one president!

Who will the class elect?

Full of laughs and suspense, Max for President is a lively story of good sportsmanship—and a great way for kids to learn a little about elections, too!

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780440417897
Publisher:	Random House Children's Books
Publication date:	08/12/2008
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	40
Product dimensions:	8.30(w) x 10.70(h) x 0.20(d)
Age Range:	3 - 7 Years

About the Author

Jarrett J. Krosoczka is also the author-illustrator of Good Night, Monkey Boy; Baghead; and Annie Was Warned. The author lives in Boston, MA.

Editorial Reviews

Who will win the election? Both Max and Kelly engage in a clean campaign for class president. But only one of them will "have the honor of serving our school," as their teacher puts it. For student candidates of all ages, an election often comes down to a referendum on their likability. But Krosoczka (Baghead) eschews the popularity issues in favor of an overview of the process. His candidates make signs and each gives a speech. Max promises, "I will work to have better indoor recesses and more exciting games in the game room!" while Kelly says, "Vote for me and we will have more exciting morning announcements and better school lunches." Nothing in the text or pictures suggests why one candidate would be more viable than the other (nor do readers see other students interacting with the candidates); it's only when Max loses by two votes that Krosoczka conveys the emotional stakes. Kelly flashes a brilliant smile and pumps her fists in the air, while Max looks small and alone at his desk, clutching his forehead. But soon Kelly appoints him vice-president, and the two combine forces to realize both of their campaign promises. Older children may find the book a bit na ve, but this is a clear, simple introduction for those facing their first election. Ages 4-8. (July) Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

Publishers Weekly

When Mrs. Antonio announces that there will be an election to choose a new class president, both Max and Kelly decide to run. They put up signs, give buttons to their classmates, and make elaborate campaign promises. On the day of the election, Max and Kelly are very nervous until the votes are counted and winner is announced. Kelly is the new class president and Max is very disappointed. Mrs. Antonio tells Kelly that she needs to choose a vice present, so Kelly chooses Max. By working together, they are able to improve the students' school lives. This story teaches both how elections work and the value of teamwork. The lively, colorful illustrations accent this story well. While a bit didactic, children will most likely enjoy this story. However, elections do not often take place in classes for this age range, so some of the concepts may be a bit alien to younger children. 2004, Alfred A Knopf, Ages 5 up.
—Amie Rose Rotruck

Children's Literature

PreS-Gr 2-In this timely tale, Krosoczka gives a simple overview of how campaigns and elections work. When their teacher announces that it is time to elect a new class president, Max and Kelly decide to run. Both children create posters, distribute buttons, and make promises about what they will do if elected. After the ballots are counted and Kelly wins, she chooses Max to be her vice president, showing readers that no president can do the job alone. Together, they accomplish good things for their school. The colorful cartoon artwork features shades of red, white, and blue that match the theme nicely. The characters' expressive faces reveal the ups and downs of the experience. Given the upcoming election, this story is sure to be a hit.-Kelley Rae Unger, Peabody Institute, MA Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

School Library Journal

A simple, pleasantly earnest, though young-hearted story of two classmates running for school president. The contest is very even-tempered, to the point of featuring one boy and one girl, Max and Kelly. Using his bright palette, and a combination of close-up head shots and encompassing classroom illustrations, Krosoczka documents the contestants postering the hallways, passing out campaign buttons (clearly these two have learned the art of campaign financing), and delivering speeches that keep the promises to the realizable: "More exciting games in the game room," Max declares. "Better school lunches," Kelly assures. The belly beats the toys. But Max is a brick in defeat, and Kelly shows she's a practiced political veteran, minutes into the game, by enlisting Max as her vice president. Krosoczka presents student government at its gentle finest-respectful, issues oriented-that the national political theater might emulate. (Picture book. 4-8)

Kirkus Reviews