About This Book
Reach for this book if your child is navigating the social minefields of middle school or feels targeted by schoolyard teasing. It is a lifeline for the student who feels invisible or burdened by an awkward sense of self, offering a humorous yet deeply poignant look at how one's identity is shaped by more than just a name. Through the lens of ninth-grader Ishmael Leseur, the story explores the sting of bullying and the transformative power of finding a 'tribe' of fellow misfits. While the book centers on a protagonist facing a relentless bully, it avoids being a heavy-handed lesson. Instead, it uses sharp wit and relatable school scenarios to show how friendship, public speaking, and a bit of courage can change one's perspective. It is an excellent choice for sparking conversations about standing up for others and the realization that everyone, even the bully, has a story behind their actions. Best suited for ages 11 to 15, it balances laugh-out-loud moments with genuine emotional growth.
