Top 10 Sid Fleischman Books

Monica Brock
11 min readJul 13, 2024

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Dive into the world of Sid Fleischman, a beloved author known for his captivating stories and memorable characters. In this article, we bring you a roundup of some must-read books by Sid Fleischman, each one guaranteed to ignite your imagination and keep you turning pages. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his work, you’re sure to find something you’ll love in our Sid Fleischman Books roundup.

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1. The Ghost on Saturday Night

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Opie, a young, curious, and brave boy, discovers that his town is filled with mystery when a ghost appears. Professor Pepper, a famous and eccentric showman, announces his plan to raise the ghost of a dead outlaw, Crookneck John, on stage. The story unfolds as the ghost escapes and Opie sets out on a thrilling adventure to unravel the truth behind Professor Pepper’s plans and the supposed existence of the ghostly bandit.

This fast-paced, witty, and high-spirited novel by Sid Fleischman takes readers on a whirlwind journey of intrigue, foggy encounters, and hidden secrets. With a cast of colorful and larger-than-life characters, the story keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they explore the world of the supernatural, friendship, and courage.

“The Ghost on Saturday Night” is a delightful reissue from the early works of the beloved author, Sid Fleischman. His storytelling mastery is evident as he weaves a captivating tale of mischief, mystery, and unparalleled amusement for young readers and enthusiasts of juvenile fiction. Prepare to embark on a suspenseful odyssey that will leave you spellbound and eager for more!

  • Authors: Sid Fleischman
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published Date: March 28, 1997
  • Page Count: 69.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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2. McBroom’s Wonderful One-Acre Farm

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Join the delightful world of McBroom’s Wonderful One-Acre Farm, a captivating collection of humorous adventures set on the one-acre prairie farm of a man named McBroom. These lighthearted tales by the accomplished author Sid Fleischman will have you laughing out loud as you follow McBroom’s mishaps and misadventures on his peculiar farm.

From planting carrots that grow into people to experiencing the extraordinary world of a tiny, talking mouse, McBroom’s Wonderful One-Acre Farm showcases the quirky and imaginative nature of its titular character and his fantastical surroundings. As you dive into these enchanting stories, you’ll be charmed by the charming humility and wisdom of McBroom, who manages to turn every challenge into a lesson learned.

This timeless classic is perfect for children and adults alike who enjoy a touch of whimsy in their storytelling. Full of heartwarming morals and memorable characters, McBroom’s Wonderful One-Acre Farm is not one to be missed. So, step into the world of McBroom’s farm and prepare yourself for a hearty dose of laughter, intrigue, and good-hearted fun.

  • Authors: Sid Fleischman
  • Publisher: Turtleback Books
  • Published Date: September 15, 1997
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Children’s stories, American
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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3. McBroom Tells a Lie

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Get ready for a roaring good time with McBroom Tells a Lie! From the pen of Sid Fleischman, readers will be taken on a delightful journey through Josh McBroom’s quirky tales. Whether it’s a frosty adventure with the sun’s reflection or an unexpected glow from the McBroom chickens, this book promises to deliver laugh-out-loud moments.

With its bright illustrations and engaging narratives, McBroom Tells a Lie is perfect for kids aged 7–10. So, grab a copy today and join the wild world of McBroom!

  • Authors: Sid Fleischman
  • Publisher: Turtleback Books
  • Published Date: May 15, 1999
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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4. The Whipping Boy

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“The Whipping Boy” by Sid Fleischman is a captivating tale of two boys trapped in a twisted world of royal hierarchy and survival. Jemmy, once a beggar on the streets, now serves as the Whipping Boy, bearing the brunt of punishments meant for the ill-tempered Prince Brat.

Despite their polar opposite backgrounds, Jemmy and Prince Brat must learn to coexist when they are taken hostage after a daring escape. Unwilling to trust one another, the two boys are forced to forge an unlikely bond in order to stay alive and outwit their captors.

“The Whipping Boy” is a heartwarming story of friendship, trust, and the unbreakable spirit of humankind. Fleischman masterfully weaves together a tale of adventure, misfortune, and redemption in this thrilling tale of two extraordinary boys. Ideal for readers aged 8–12, this timeless classic offers an engaging and thought-provoking journey that will leave you eager for more!

  • Authors: Sid Fleischman
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published Date: April 15, 2003
  • Page Count: 100.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Fiction
  • Average Rating: 4.0
  • Ratings Count: 5.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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5. The Giant Rat of Sumatra

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or Pirates Galore

“Embark on a thrilling journey filled with danger, treachery, and adventure with The Giant Rat of Sumatra: or Pirates Galore, a masterful work by Sid Fleischman. This gripping tale weaves together the escapades of the infamous pirate ship, The Giant Rat of Sumatra, with its fearsome figurehead, and its young cabin boy, Shipwreck. As the ship docks in San Diego, Shipwreck eagerly anticipates his homeward voyage to Boston.

However, fate has other plans, and he becomes embroiled in a deadly plot. Join Shipwreck as he navigates this treacherous maze of betrayal and retribution, where each new twist is a testament to his courage and resilience.

This whirlwind of adventure, spanning just 212 pages, promises to capture the hearts of young and old alike with its unforgettable characters, intricate plot, and vivid descriptions. The Giant Rat of Sumatra: or Pirates Galore is a riveting addition to the world of juvenile fiction, perfect for both avid readers and those just beginning their literary journey. “.

  • Authors: Sid Fleischman
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published Date: August 01, 2006
  • Page Count: 212.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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6. Escape!

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The Story of the Great Houdini

Escape! is a thrilling, captivating biography written by the talented Sid Fleischman. Delve into the exhilarating world of the ever-fascinating Houdini, who was not only a magician, but also a ghost chaser, daredevil, pioneer aviator, and world-renowned escape artist. Discover the man behind the myth as you delve into his astonishing life and accomplishments, all while being thoroughly entertained by Fleischman’s witty insights and fascinating anecdotes.

Houdini’s incredible talent for escape left audiences speechless as he walked through brick walls and made elephants disappear with merely a snap of his fingers. But who was this man who could seemingly break the laws of nature? This book provides a fresh, compelling look at the life of a man who defied conventional boundaries and pushed the limits of what was possible.

Fleischman, a former professional magician, brings a unique perspective to this biography, enriching it with insider knowledge and unmasking some of the lesser-known stories surrounding Houdini’s life and career. Did Houdini really pick the jailhouse lock to save a fellow performer? Are his secrets truly buried with him? Was he truly a failure as a magician, as some claimed? Escape! offers a balanced and engaging look at the life of Houdini, exploring the controversies and myths that surround his legacy.

This biography also features rare photographs that provide a glimpse into the life of Houdini that has never before been seen by the general public. It is a must-read for fans of the great escape artist and those intrigued by the fascinating world of magic and the supernatural.

So, if you are looking for an engaging and captivating read that will transport you to a time when anything was possible, Escape! is the perfect choice. Experience the exhilarating life of the one and only Houdini, as you come to see that he was not just a magician, but also a true legend of his time.

  • Authors: Sid Fleischman
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published Date: August 01, 2006
  • Page Count: 234.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Nonfiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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7. The Trouble Begins at 8

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A Life of Mark Twain in the Wild, Wild West

“The Trouble Begins at 8: A Life of Mark Twain in the Wild, Wild West” is a captivating and humor-filled journey through the life of one of America’s most iconic authors, Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain. This engaging biography, written by the talented Sid Fleischman, vividly portrays the adventures of Twain, from his humble beginnings as a steamboat pilot on the Mississippi River to his life as a prospector in the Wild West.

Fleischman skillfully weaves together tales of Twain’s early life, including his transformation into Mark Twain and the creation of beloved characters such as Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. With rich illustrations throughout, this book invites readers of all ages to explore the wild and untamed world that inspired the great author.

With a balance of intrigue and information, “The Trouble Begins at 8” is a must-read for both those who are familiar with Mark Twain’s works and for those who are eager to discover his extraordinary life and career. Brimming with wit, adventure, and humor, this book immortalizes the life of one of the most iconic authors in American literature.

  • Authors: Sid Fleischman
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published Date: July 29, 2008
  • Page Count: 248.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Nonfiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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8. Humbug Mountain

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Embark on an exciting journey through the dusty trails of the Old West with “Humbug Mountain” by Sid Fleischman. At its heart, this novel follows Wiley, the son of a wandering newspaper man, as he stumbles upon a thrilling adventure to find his long-lost grandfather.

However, the search is far from simple. With the help of his sister and mother, Wiley and the trio navigate a treacherous game of outsmarting the villainous duo of Shagnasty John and the Fool Killer. Their weapon: a cleverly titled newspaper, “The Humbug Mountain Hoorah. “

Their mission? To thwart the sinister plan to ambush the grand arrival of Grandfather’s new boat brimming with gold. What ensues is a thrilling tale filled with danger, intrigue, and the indomitable spirit of the West.

As you turn the pages of this 149-page, riveting read, you’ll experience the challenges and triumphs of Wiley and his family as they navigate the perilous wilds of Humbug Mountain. Let “Humbug Mountain” by Blackstone Publishing sweep you away into the exciting world of the Old West and keep you enthralled until the very last page.

  • Authors: Sid Fleischman
  • Publisher: Blackstone Publishing
  • Published Date: July 01, 2012
  • Page Count: 149.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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9. Seedfolks

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In the heart of a diverse Cleveland neighborhood, a Vietnamese girl named Ming sows her first seeds in a vacant lot. What begins as a small act of courage soon blossoms as a motley crew of community members unite to nurture and grow a flourishing garden.

Written by Newbery Medal-winning author Paul Fleischman, ‘Seedfolks’ masterfully weaves together perspectives from its thirteen vibrant characters, each hailing from different corners of the world. From the eyes of a Romanian woman and her curious neighbor to an eager school janitor and an aspiring track star, these voices intertwine to create a powerful tapestry of unity and transformation.

‘Seedfolks’ isn’t just about the creation of a community garden; it’s a deeply moving exploration of immigrant life, relationships, and the power of understanding. Its relatable, endearing characters and accessible language have resonated with readers of all ages, making it a popular choice for one-book reads in schools and cities around the world.

But this isn’t the whole story, though. Fleischman, with his extensive background in the immigrant experience, carries forward his journey in storytelling in his forthcoming memoir, ‘No Map, Great Trip: A Young Writer’s Road to Page One’. His rich experiences form the backbone of ‘Seedfolks’, making it one that leaves a profound impact on its readers.

To this end, ‘Seedfolks’, with all its tenderness and charm, remains a timeless masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of cultures and generations. Its small size belies the profound message of hope it contains, making it a must-read for young and old alike.

“Seedfolks” is also available in an audio format, narrated by the author himself, providing an immersive listening experience. Furthermore, ‘Seedfolks’ has a sister collection of poems, ‘Joyful Noise: Poems for Two Voices’, which also won a Newbery Medal. A delightful addition to any reader’s library, this heartwarming narrative about the power of community is a testament to the transformative effect of compassion and understanding.

  • Authors: Paul Fleischman
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published Date: July 30, 2013
  • Page Count: 112.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Young Adult Fiction
  • Average Rating: 3.0
  • Ratings Count: 3.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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10. Joyful Noise

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Poems for Two Voices

Written by accomplished author and Newbery Medal-winner, Paul Fleischman, Joyful Noise is a stunning anthology of mesmerizing poems, inviting readers to explore the captivating universe of insects. Each of these whimsical and versatile pieces is crafted with humorous wit and an undertone of emotional depth.

Illustrated by the renowned Eric Beddows, each poem in Joyful Noise is paired with a vivid, unforgettable character. This collection excels when read aloud, making it an exceptional selection for group activities or classroom use. With its pages brimming with lively energy, Joyful Noise transcends its role as a mere guide to the insect kingdom; it becomes a joyous ode to life itself.

  • Authors: Paul Fleischman
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published Date: September 24, 2013
  • Page Count: 68.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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