THE TRUTH UNBUCKLED : 4TH-GRADE FANS

Two weeks ago Outtakes asked readers to help count the buckles attached to Michael Jackson’s “Bad” outfit and, more earthshakingly, explain why the Ungloved One is wearing so many of them. The deluge of loose leaf and post cards and even a typed letter or two was overwhelming. Not one managed to come up with the correct number. According to Jackson’s PR people, Michael--who designed the outfit himself--is wearing 46 buckles. Why? The PR people said Michael said there’s no special meaning behind them. But readers think differently. Here’s a representative sampling of their buckle guesses and buckle explanations--the ones that are suitable for a family newspaper.

Here are some comments and guesses from my fourth-grade class at Granada School in Alhambra.

Outtakes’ request came on the heels of my talk to the children about writing letters to communicate ideas.

These letters are unedited intentionally. Proofreading begins next week.

BILL NICKMAN

Alhambra

Michael Jackson wears so many buckles because he wants to be funny. And sooner or later he will be covered with buckles. I think he has 102 buckles.

JENNY TAN

I think Michael Jackson wears so many buckles because he is a total geek.

I think he is wearing 65 buckles.

MONET LOGAN