Wilson Williams's mother and father try to help him with multiplication, but Wilson doesn't appreciate doing practice math tests on a play date. Fortunately, the class hamster is a comfort. Wilson is sure with his own little animal cuddling beside him, he could learn anything. But his mother doesn't like pets. Surprisingly, Wilson's younger brother, Kipper, comes to his rescue. Illustrations.

Wilson Williams worries about passing his times-table testsWilson has a hard time with math, especially with Mrs. Porter's timed multiplication tests. If only he were as quick as Laura Vicks, the smartest kid in third grade, or as quick as his brother, Kipper - a kindergartner. Wilson's mother and father try to help, but Wilson doesn't appreciate having to do practice tests on a play date. Fortunately, his friend Josh Hernandez is a comfort, as is Squiggles, the class hamster. Wilson is sure that with his own little animal squeaking and cuddling beside him, he could learn anything. But his mom doesn't like pets. So Wilson bravely struggles on, hoping that one day in the not-too-distant future he'll pass all his times-table tests. Then, surprisingly, Kipper comes to the rescue.With sensitivity and gentle humor, Claudia Mills examines a common childhood fear and a common family experience. G. Brian Karas provides tender, funny pictures.