Reviews for Extra Credit by Andrew Clements highlight its engaging storyline and strong messages about cross-cultural communication and friendship. Critics praise the relatable characters and educational value, though some find the plot predictable and certain cultural portrayals simplistic. Overall, it’s well-regarded for young readers.

Readers who enjoy Extra Credit by Andrew Clements are typically middle-grade students aged 8-12 who appreciate stories about friendship, cultural exchange, and overcoming personal challenges. Fans of Frindle and Dear Mr. Henshaw will find this book engaging and inspiring due to its relatable characters and school-centered setting.

Extra Credit by Andrew Clements is a 2009 young adult novel about Abby Carson, a sixth-grader from Illinois, who must complete an extra credit project to pass her grade. She starts a pen pal exchange with Sadeed Bayat, a high-achieving boy from Afghanistan, who assists his sister Amira in writing letters. Through their correspondence, Abby and Sadeed form a bond, sharing personal stories and cultural insights. However, external pressures and cultural differences eventually put their correspondence at risk. The book explores themes of education, resilience, and cross-cultural understanding.

Andrew Clements

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

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Chapters 1-7

Extra Credit Chapters 1-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-14

Extra Credit Chapters 8-14 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 15-21

Extra Credit Chapters 15-21 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Extra Credit Character Analysis

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Themes

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Extra Credit

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