School Library JournalGr 3–6—Zaritza, 11, is trying to earn extra credit and solve her school problems by turning in her missing math assignments and taking care of the class pet, a fuzzy ferret, over winter break. Unfortunately, Zaritza thinks Bandito is boring, smelly, and too noisy. She is more interested in preparing for the starring role in the school play, but she can't perform in it unless she catches up on her homework. Under her watch, Bandito escapes, creating chaos around the house and eating much more than just Zaritza's math homework. Her imagination runs wild with dramatic flair as she comes up with assorted reasons why she cannot complete her assignment. When it comes time to be part of the class play, the experience is not exactly what the aspiring thespian had in mind.
