Flour Babies by Anne Fine tells the story of a disruptive school class that takes part in a science experiment. Each student must care for a 6-pound bag of flour as if it were a real baby for three weeks.
At first, the students think the task is silly and annoying, but they soon realize that looking after a “baby” requires patience, responsibility, and constant care. The main character, Simon, a clever but troubled boy, becomes emotionally attached to his flour baby. Through this experience, he reflects on his own family life and his absent father.