Synopses & Reviews
It's tough being the new kid at Carver Elementary. Gavin had lots of friends at his old school, but the kids here don't even know that he's pretty good at skateboarding, or how awesome he is at soccer. And when his classmate Richard comes over and the boys end up in trouble, not only does Gavin risk losing his one new friend, he has to take care of his great aunt Myrtle's horrible little dog as punishment. To make matters worse, Gavin seems to have attracted the attention of the school bully. Will he be able to avoid getting pounded at the skate park? And how is he ever going to prove he's cool with a yappy little Pomeranian wearing a pink bow at his side?
Review
"Schneider seems to draw inspiration from both O. Henry and Edward Gorey, with deadpan, dead-on writing and meticulously inked, elegantly styled watercolors."
Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)
Review
"Schneider's watercolor, ink, and pencil illustrations have humor and sweetness."
School Library Journal
Review
"In five short, humorous stories, with whimsical watercolor illustrations, this beginning chapter book...should appeal to every new reader's sense of fun, especially if they've ever had a diva moment. And really, who hasn't?" Booklist
Review
"Schneider's multimedia illustrations employ the same humorous, expressive line seen in his Geisel Award-winning Tales for Very Picky Eaters (2011), delivering a remarkable package. A gift of a book for new readers." Kirkus (Starred Review)
About the Author
Karen English is a Coretta Scott King Honor Award-winner and the author of the Nikki and Deja series. Her chapter books have been praised for their accessible writing, authentic characters, and satisfying storylines. She is a retired elementary school teacher and lives in Los Angeles, California.
Josh Schneider is the Theodor Seuss Geisel Award-winning creator of Tales for Very Picky Eaters, The Meanest Birthday Girl, Bedtime Monsters, and Princess Sparkle-Heart Gets a Makeover. His first book for Clarion, You'll Be Sorry, was named "Book That Provides Best Ammunition to Parents Weary of Warning Their Kids About Socking Their Siblings" by Publishers Weekly magazine. Josh lives in Chicago with his wife, Dana.