Judy Cox

The good news is that the third grade can buy a class pet. The bad news for Rosemary is that the kids want a rat. How gross!
There's no way Rosemary's mother will let her take a turn as keeper for a dirty, creepy animal. But Rosemary surprises herself when she begins to like Cheese, the gray and white hooded rat. Then, when Cheese's life is in danger, it's Rosemary to the rescue...if she can hide him from her family!

"The people are lively individuals capable of holding their own against Cheeky Cheese. [The book's] welcome freedom from preachiness and sound insight into grade-school psychology, and its furry appeal should keep young readers happily scampering through the pages."--The Bulletin, Recommended

"Short sentences, funny quips, and ample lighthearted art make this a smooth read--and a good choice."--Publisher's Weekly

"A comic, tender chapter book...kids enjoy the farce...the classroom scenes are as funny and immediate as those in Rosemary's home."--Booklist