The Boy Who Failed Dodgeball by Jordan Sonnenblick - HIGH

 The Boy Who Failed Dodgeball by Jordan Sonnenblick, 250 pages. Scholastic, 2022, $18. 

Content G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

6th grader Jordan is navigating a mine field as he encounters his first crush, multiple trips to the principal’s office, and a variety of creative and harmful injuries, that mixed with asthma and anxiety make you wonder how Jordan survives his new school.

Told with plenty of humor, this is a follow-up to Jordan’s fourth grade experience, The Boy Who Failed Show and Tell, though you don’t have to read them in order. Jordan’s story is relatable if you’ve ever had to deal with bullies, mishaps or a teacher who seems to hate you. I liked Jordan’s character and his pluck that sees him through every misadventure. You’ll find yourself cheering for him even when he makes dumb decisions. 

Michelle in the Middle