Summary
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, published in 1972, is a beloved children's novel by Judy Blume, Kicking off the popular Fudge series, the book introduces readers to nine-year-old Peter Hatcher and his mischievous younger brother Fudge, capturing the trials and tribulations of sibling rivalry with humor and heart. The novel's enduring popularity stems from its relatable characters and Blume's keen understanding of family dynamics and childhood frustrations. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing has remained in print for over 50 years, cementing its place as a staple in elementary school classrooms and libraries across the United States.
Plot
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing follows the life of nine-year-old Peter Hatcher, who struggles with the chaos caused by his mischievous little brother, Fudge. The story begins with Peter winning a pet turtle named Dribble at his friend Jimmy's birthday party. Peter's joy is quickly overshadowed by Fudge's constant interference and their parents' seeming inability to discipline the toddler.
As the narrative progresses, Fudge's antics escalate. He ruins his father's business meeting with important clients, refuses to eat unless treated like a dog, and causes havoc during a family outing. The situation worsens when Fudge knocks out his front teeth after attempting to “fly” off playground equipment, leading to more attention from their parents and further frustration for Peter.
Peter's life becomes increasingly complicated as he tries to balance school projects, friendships, and dealing with Fudge's disruptive behavior. His little brother continues to wreak havoc, vandalizing Peter's school project and causing chaos during a TV commercial shoot. Throughout these ordeals, Peter feels ignored and underappreciated by his parents, who seem to focus primarily on Fudge's needs.
The story reaches its climax when Fudge swallows Peter's beloved turtle, Dribble. This incident leads to a hospital stay for Fudge and, tragically, the death of Dribble. In the aftermath, Peter's parents finally recognize Peter’s patience and maturity, giving him a puppy as a gesture of appreciation. Peter names the puppy Turtle in memory of Dribble, bringing the story to a bittersweet conclusion.
Themes
Sibling rivalry and resentment
Parental attention and favoritism
Coping with a challenging younger sibling
Growing up and taking responsibility
Family dynamics and relationships
Dealing with loss and grief
Finding one's place in the family
Setting
Set in the early 1970s, Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing unfolds against the backdrop of bustling New York City. The story primarily takes place in Manhattan, capturing the essence of urban family life during this era. The Hatcher family's apartment serves as the central setting, providing an intimate glimpse into the challenges and dynamics of raising children in a city environment.
The narrative also features iconic New York locations, such as Central Park, which serves as a backdrop for family outings and childhood adventures. Other settings include local businesses, such as a shoe store and a hamburger restaurant, which become stages for Fudge's mischievous antics. In addition, the book touches on the professional world of 1970s New York, with scenes set in Warren Hatcher's advertising agency. This provides a contrast between the domestic sphere and the working world, highlighting the era's social dynamics. Through these diverse settings, Blume paints a vivid picture of life in New York City during this period, balancing the personal with the public in a way that resonates with readers across generations.
Characters
Peter Warren Hatcher: The nine-year-old protagonist and narrator. Peter struggles with feeling overlooked by his parents in favor of his younger brother. He's responsible and patient, but often frustrated by Fudge's antics. Peter's journey involves learning to cope with family dynamics and finding his place as the older sibling.
Farley Drexel “Fudge” Hatcher: Peter's mischievous toddler brother. Prone to tantrums and destructive behavior, Fudge is the source of much chaos in the Hatcher household. Despite his troublesome nature, he idolizes Peter and seeks his attention. Fudge's antics drive much of the plot.
Anne Hatcher: Peter and Fudge's mother. Anne often seems to favor Fudge, causing Peter to feel neglected. She's protective of Fudge but does discipline him when necessary. Anne struggles to balance the needs of both her children throughout the story.
Warren Hatcher: The boys' father and an advertising executive. Warren is more stern with Fudge than Anne but also indulges him at times. He tries to be fair to both sons and ultimately recognizes and rewards Peter for his patience as a big brother.
Sheila Tubman: Peter's classmate who lives in the same apartment building. Sheila is bossy and a know-it-all, much to Peter's annoyance. She works with Peter on a school project and sometimes helps babysit Fudge.
Jimmy Fargo: Peter's best friend. Jimmy shares Peter's dislike of Sheila and is part of their school project group. He and Peter have a special rock collection in the park.
Dribble: Peter's pet turtle, won at Jimmy's birthday party. Dribble is the object of Fudge's fascination and ultimately meets his demise when Fudge swallows him.
Quick facts
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing was released in 1972 as the first of five books in Judy Blume’s popular Fudge series.
Peter's little brother Farley goes by the nickname “Fudge” throughout the series.
The story is set in New York City, where the Hatcher family lives in an apartment.
The book is loosely based on Judy Blume's own experiences with her son Larry and daughter Randy.
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing was adapted into a television series that aired on Nickelodeon and ABC in the 1990s.
The book originally featured illustrations by Roy Doty, but post-2002 reprints omitted the line drawings.
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing has been translated into multiple languages and remains popular nearly 50 years after its initial publication, never going out of print.
About the Author
Judy Blume (1938-) is an iconic American author recognized for her profound influence on children’s and young adult literature. Known for their candid exploration of sensitive topics such as puberty, sexuality, and birth control, her young adult novels include Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret (1970), Deanie (1973), Forever (1975), and Tiger Eyes (1981). Exploring issues from sibling rivalry and bullying to death, her books for middle-grade readers include Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing (1972), Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great (1972), and Blubber (1974). Her books have sold over 82 million copies worldwide, with translations in more than 30 different languages, and been adapted for film and television.
Growing up in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Blume received a bachelor’s degree in education from New York University in 1960, a year after getting married. She had two children and put her teaching career on hold. After divorcing in the 1970s, Blume enrolled in a continuing education course on writing for children and teenagers—and found her calling. In addition to her numerous works for young readers, she has written four novels for adults—Wifey (1978), Smart Women (1983), Summer Sisters (1998), and In the Unlikely Event (2015).
Throughout her career, Blume has received numerous accolades, including the Margaret A. Edwards Award for lifetime achievement in young adult literature and the National Book Foundation's Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters. In 2023, TIME magazine named her one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World. Over the years, Blume has also provoked criticism for her frank approach to writing about controversial matters affecting young people. She has become a vocal advocate for intellectual freedom, serving on the board of the National Coalition Against Censorship and actively fighting against book banning. Blume is also the founder of The Kids Fund, a charitable foundation, and co-owns a nonprofit bookstore in Key West, Florida, where she currently resides.
