In Line ‘Em Up! by Oscar Avery, we are introduced to four students who have learning disabilities and seem to have a revolving door of teachers at their school. So far, no teacher has stayed long enough to even get to know these four students. This only makes the children feel more like outcasts than the rest of the students at their school.
Then one day, Mr. Murant subs their class and instantly connects with the four students. In the process of learning about each individual student, Mr. Murant tells them about himself. You see, he suffers from a brain disorder called Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). This disorder is caused by repeated head injuries from playing things like rough sports such as football, which he previously did. This disorder causes the brain’s nerve cells to die and this produces many mental complications like forgetfulness, which happens to him quite frequently. The children bond with Mr. Murant for six months and he starts teaching them that the sky is the limit as long as they believe in themselves. What happens to Mr. Murant and the children as their bond strengthens?
This reviewer was extremely touched at how in depth this children’s book was, not only on an emotional level, but also on a developmental level watching each of the four children flourish under Mr. Murant’s guidance. This book is a feel-good story for any child or class that may be labeled difficult learners because it will teach them that the sky is the limit on what you can learn and who you can become. All children should live by this mantra, allowing them to feel that they are worthy just like any other child.
Personally, this reviewer learned about this brain disorder Mr. Murant suffered from by reading this children’s book. Learning exactly what CTE was and the difficult ramifications Mr. Murant and others deal with on a daily basis was eye opening. Although Oscar Avery briefly explained what this disorder was and the side effects of it, I feel that parents, guardians, and librarians should know that the disorder can be very dangerous and often life-threatening.
The illustrations provided by Sarah Jane Docker were done in muted tones throughout this children’s book. The pictures encompassed the entire page of every single page of the book. They were the perfect complement to the story that was written.
Quill says: Line ‘Em Up! by Oscar Avery is one book that will have children cheering on the four students they come to know and love in this story. The storyline is very believable, the characters are well developed, and there are valuable lessons to be learned as you turn the pages.
