King Karl

Reach for this book when your child starts feeling the stinging pressure of middle school social circles, particularly when a 'third wheel' dynamic threatens a long-standing friendship. It is an ideal choice for the child who feels replaced by a new student or is struggling to navigate the complex line between standing up for themselves and becoming the very bully they dislike. In this second installment of the Odd Squad series, Nick faces his greatest fear: losing his best friend Molly to the charismatic new girl, Simone. To win her back, he has to team up with his former nemesis, Karl. The story uses humor and high-stakes school drama to explore themes of jealousy and loyalty. It is perfectly pitched for the 8 to 12 age range, offering a relatable look at how friendships evolve and the importance of resourcefulness when you feel like an outsider.