For decades children in France have enjoyed the antics of Nicholas and his pals. Nineteen small adventures written by the author made famous by his Asterix series distinguish this introduction to the hapless school friends. Nicholas narrates his misadventures, and they are made all the more humorous by Jean-Jacques Sempe’s many line drawings. Other books in the series include Nicholas Again (2006), Nicholas on Holiday (2006), Nicholas on Vacation (2006), Nicholas and the Gang (2007). 2006 Batchelder Honor Book. djg

Originally published as Le Petit Nicolas in French by Êditions Denoël France, in 1960. Translated by Anthea Bell.

Nicholas is the first in a series of five books, that bring to life the day-to-day adventures of a young school boy - amusing, endearing and always in trouble. An only child, Nicholas appears older at school than he does at home; his touchingly naive reactions to different situations cut through the preconceptions of adults to result in a formidable sequence of escapades.

Ages 9-12