Ruben Plotnick is the most popular kid in David’s class, and the wackiest, too. On top of that, he’s really smart. So David is thrilled when The Plotnick wants to do homework at his house.
But there’s one problem: Grandma Rosie. “You see, my Grandma Rosie forgets things and mixes things up. Sometimes she sits totally still and won’t answer when you talk to her…Grandma Rosie is also awesome at checkers…Of course, in the middle of a move, she could knock over the board and start an argument with Grandpa Nate, who died five years ago.” Even though David loves his grandmother, he is worried about his classmate’s reaction when he sees her.
When the boys arrive at David’s house, and enter the kitchen for a snack (and Ruben characteristically plants himself in the sink), his worst fears are realized: Grandma Rosie says, “‘Nate, let’s waltz,’” looking at Ruben. Thinking that The Plotnick will probably act out the whole embarrassing scene in school the next day, David offers to dance with her, but she is adamant. “And then it happened. Ruben The Plotnick put down his glass…and stepped between us. ‘She wants to dance with me, not you,’ he said quietly, putting his arm around Grandma’s waist.” And dance he does. David realizes he has learned an important lesson here, and instead of regretting that Ruben met his grandmother, he knows it is a good thing. For he has gotten to know the real Ruben Plotnick. And when Grandma Rosie mentions the little boy in the sink, David, for once, doesn’t share his parents’ sadness.
Roz Rosenbluth has written a story that is meaningful on many levels. The issue of increasing senility in an aging grandparent, and its effect on family members, is made comprehensible even to young children. Grandma Rosie is not a one-dimensional character defined only by her condition, but an important and beloved member of the family. Readers will be encouraged to look at classmates–popular and not-so-popular alike–as real people they might like to get to know. Maurie J. Manning’s bright, cheerful illustrations are a perfect complement to the story. Little details (beginning on the verso of the title page) involving the family dog are priceless. This story, and the messages it contains, are as pleasing as Grandma Rosie’s chocolate cookies. Ages 5-9
Published by Flashlight Press in 2005
Read more reviews and buy Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick on Amazon: Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick
