About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to find their footing in a new blended family or feels overshadowed by a high achieving sibling or peer. It is particularly effective for boys who express their frustrations through sports or humor rather than direct conversation. Nick is a seventh grader dealing with the typical pressures of middle school basketball while navigating life with a new stepmother and a stepbrother he finds incredibly annoying. The story explores themes of jealousy, the pain of missing a biological parent after divorce, and the importance of personal integrity. While the title and some scenes Lean into gross out humor that kids love, the emotional core is deeply grounded in the reality of adjusting to change. It is a relatable and encouraging read for children aged 8 to 12 who need to see that it is okay to feel messy emotions during a family transition.
