About This Book
Reach for this book when your middle-schooler is feeling the social pressures of sixth grade or struggling to find their voice in a new environment. Through a series of witty and rhythmic poems, Gary Soto captures the authentic bond between two best friends, Fernie and the narrator, as they navigate the awkward transition into adolescence. It is a perfect choice for children who might find long novels intimidating but crave stories that reflect their daily lives. The poems touch on school crushes, sports mishaps, and the quiet comfort of having a loyal friend. By highlighting the small victories and minor embarrassments of school life, this collection normalizes the anxiety of growing up and celebrates the resilience found in friendship. It is an ideal read for ages 8 to 12, offering both humor and a gentle mirror to the middle school experience.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
While it touches on the pressures of fitting in and the sting of small failures, the approach is light and the resolution is consistently hopeful and grounded in the strength of their friendship.
Ideal Reader
A 10-year-old boy who may be a reluctant reader or prefers short bursts of storytelling. Specifically, a child who values their 'partners in crime' and is starting to feel the shift from childhood play to teenage social dynamics.
