Books in the series Middle School

Rafe Khatchadorian has enough problems at home without having to worry about the soul-crushing environment of Hills Village Middle School. To make his first year bearable, Rafe and his best friend Leo the Silent come up with a plan: Operation R.A.F.E. The goal is to break every single rule in the school's handbook. From pulling fire alarms to chewing gum in class, Rafe is on a mission to turn his school year into a game, but he soon learns that life isn't always as easy as a high score.

This book is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and is an ideal choice for readers interested in funny, fast-paced stories about overcoming obstacles. With its blend of hilarious text and expressive illustrations, it is a great choice for reluctant readers who might find traditional novels intimidating. James Patterson captures the awkwardness, frustration, and humor of the pre-teen years with a voice that feels authentic and engaging for middle-grade audiences.

Highlights:

• Hilarious illustrations that bring Rafe's imagination to life.
• A relatable protagonist dealing with real-world issues like bullying and family dynamics.
• Fast-paced plot that keeps reluctant readers turning the pages.
• Explores themes of creativity and standing up for oneself.

Rafe Khatchadorian is back, and this time he's trading the suburbs for the big city! In Middle School: Get Me Out of Here!, Rafe heads to Chicago to attend a fancy art school, hoping for a fresh start. But life in the city isn't all galleries and masterpieces. Rafe quickly discovers that making friends and staying out of trouble is just as hard in the city as it was back home. With his trademark humor and a new mission called "Operation: Get a Life," Rafe navigates the ups and downs of seventh grade while uncovering a big family secret.

This book is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or Big Nate. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in funny, fast-paced stories that use illustrations to bring the characters to life. James Patterson captures the awkwardness and excitement of middle school perfectly, making it a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy a mix of text and art. Parents will appreciate the underlying themes of resilience and the importance of staying true to oneself even when things get messy.

Highlights:

• Hilarious illustrations that enhance the storytelling experience.
• Relatable middle school struggles with a creative twist.
• A fast-paced plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
• Heartfelt moments exploring family dynamics and personal growth.

Georgia Khatchadorian is finally entering Hills Village Middle School, and she has a plan: she is going to be everything her troublemaking brother, Rafe, was not. While Rafe spent his time breaking every rule in the book, Georgia is determined to be popular, successful, and well-liked. She even makes a bet with her brother that she will become one of the most popular girls in school. However, Georgia quickly realizes that escaping Rafe's shadow is harder than she thought, especially when his bad reputation precedes her and his sneaky pranks start ruining her social life.

This hilarious installment in the Middle School series is perfect for children who love funny, relatable stories about the trials and tribulations of sixth grade. Ideal for readers interested in sibling rivalries and school-based comedies, this book offers a fresh perspective from Georgia's point of view. It is a great choice for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Dork Diaries who enjoy fast-paced plots filled with humor and heart.

Highlights:

• A funny and relatable look at middle school social hierarchies and the quest for popularity.
• Explores the complex but loving bond between siblings and the struggle to define one's own identity.
• Perfect for reluctant readers who enjoy illustrated fiction and fast-paced humor.
• Features a strong, opinionated female protagonist finding her own voice in a new environment.

Rafe Khatchadorian is back for another hilarious adventure in Middle School: How I Survived Bullies, Broccoli, and Snake Hill. Expecting a summer of fun, Rafe is shocked to discover his mom has sent him to a summer school camp! However, the "Snake Hill" experience turns out to be more than just textbooks and tests. Rafe quickly finds himself bonding with a group of fellow misfits in his cabin, including a boy nicknamed Booger-Eater. As the summer progresses, Rafe learns that there is much more to people than their labels, especially when they have to stand up against the bullies from the "Cool Cabin."

This book is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and are looking for a relatable, funny story about navigating social hierarchies and making real friends. Ideal for readers interested in summer camp stories and those who enjoy a mix of humor and heart, James Patterson delivers a fast-paced tale that captures the awkwardness and triumphs of being a middle schooler. It is a great choice for reluctant readers who appreciate the illustrated, diary-style format and witty narration.

Highlights:

• A relatable and funny look at the challenges of summer camp and making new friends.
• Explores important themes of looking past labels and standing up to bullying.
• Perfect for fans of illustrated middle-grade novels like Diary of a Wimpy Kid.
• Engaging, fast-paced storytelling that appeals to reluctant readers.

Join Rafe Khatchadorian, everyone's favorite middle school troublemaker, in another hilarious and heart-pounding adventure! In Middle School: Save Rafe!, our protagonist faces his biggest challenge yet. After a disastrous school year, Rafe is told he will be held back unless he can survive an intensive outdoor survival program. This isn't just any summer camp; it involves dangerous white-water rafting, dizzying rock climbing, and a grueling solo trek through the deep woods. It is the ultimate test of character for a kid who usually prefers video games to the great outdoors.

This book is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or readers interested in funny, relatable stories about overcoming obstacles. James Patterson masterfully blends humor with genuine moments of growth, making it an ideal choice for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced plots and illustrated storytelling. Parents will appreciate the positive messages about leadership, perseverance, and finding inner strength when things get tough.

Highlights:

• Action-packed survival challenges including rafting and climbing.
• A relatable protagonist who learns the value of leadership and courage.
• Engaging illustrations that make it perfect for reluctant readers.
• A humorous take on the struggles of middle school life.

Middle School: Ultimate Showdown is an exciting, interactive addition to James Patterson's beloved series that puts the reader right in the middle of the action. Siblings Rafe and Georgia Khatchadorian are at it again, but this time, they want you to take a side! This book is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid style of storytelling, blending hilarious anecdotes with over 200 illustrations and engaging activities. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in school life, sibling dynamics, and creative expression.

Throughout the book, Rafe and Georgia trade barbs on everything from cafeteria food to strict dress codes, providing more than 40 writing and drawing prompts that encourage kids to share their own opinions. This interactive format makes it a great choice for reluctant readers who might find traditional novels intimidating. Whether they are doodling their own inventions or writing about their worst school days, children will find themselves fully immersed in the Khatchadorian world.

Highlights:

• Interactive format with over 40 writing and drawing prompts.
• Hilarious sibling rivalry between fan-favorites Rafe and Georgia.
• Over 200 illustrations that bring the story and activities to life.
• Perfect for fans of humorous, diary-style middle grade fiction.

Rafe Khatchadorian is back at Hills Village Middle School, and things aren't exactly going according to plan. In Middle School: Just My Rotten Luck, Rafe finds himself in "special" classes and, surprisingly, on the school football team. The catch? He has to play alongside his long-time tormentor, Miller the Killer. This hilarious seventh installment in James Patterson's bestselling series is perfect for children who love funny, relatable stories about surviving the ups and downs of school life.

Between navigating the social hierarchy and trying to score on the field, Rafe launches a super-secret art project intended to leave a lasting mark on the school. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in stories about underdogs, creativity, and finding one's place in a chaotic world. With its signature blend of humor and heart, it's a great choice for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Big Nate who enjoy fast-paced plots and engaging illustrations.

Highlights:

• Relatable middle school struggles told with laugh-out-loud humor.
• Explores themes of bullying, teamwork, and artistic expression.
• Features dynamic illustrations that appeal to visual learners and reluctant readers.
• A heartwarming look at an underdog finding his voice through art and sports.

Rafe Khatchadorian is back, and this time he's trading his sketchbook for a leash! In Middle School: Dog's Best Friend, Rafe discovers that his family is struggling financially and decides to take matters into his own hands. He launches a neighborhood dog-walking empire to help out, but things get complicated when a pair of competitive twins start a "Great Dog War" to steal his clients. To make matters worse, his genius younger sister, Georgia, has skipped a grade and is now in all of his classes!

This hilarious installment is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or any reader who enjoys fast-paced, illustrated stories about the chaos of growing up. James Patterson expertly blends laugh-out-loud humor with genuine heart, exploring real-world issues like financial stress and family loyalty in a way that remains accessible and engaging. It is an ideal choice for reluctant readers who appreciate funny protagonists, relatable middle school drama, and the triumph of the underdog. Whether your child is a longtime fan of Rafe or new to the series, this book offers a great mix of slapstick comedy and meaningful life lessons.

Highlights:

• A funny and relatable look at starting a first business and managing money.
• Explores themes of family support and resilience during tough times.
• Perfect for fans of illustrated novels and humorous realistic fiction.
• Features the classic underdog charm of Rafe Khatchadorian.

Rafe Khatchadorian is back, and this time he is trading the halls of Hills Village Middle School for the wild outback of Australia! After winning a school-wide art competition, Rafe thinks he is in for a relaxing vacation. However, he quickly discovers that the Land Down Under is full of unexpected challenges, from scorching temperatures and terrifyingly poisonous critters to host-siblings who are less than welcoming. This hilarious installment in James Patterson's bestselling series is perfect for children who love funny, fast-paced adventures and relatable underdog stories.

Ideal for readers interested in travel and global adventures, Middle School: Escape to Australia combines slapstick humor with heart. As Rafe navigates a new culture and tries to make new friends, he learns valuable lessons about resilience and staying true to himself. It is a great choice for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Big Nate who are looking for a story filled with mayhem, mischief, and a touch of artistic flair.

Highlights:

• An action-packed international adventure set in the Australian outback.
• Relatable themes of fitting in, overcoming obstacles, and family dynamics.
• Engaging illustrations and humorous storytelling that appeal to reluctant readers.
• A fun exploration of Australian culture, wildlife, and geography.

Rafe Khatchadorian is back, and this time he's taking his signature brand of chaos across the Atlantic! In Middle School: From Hero to Zero, Rafe wins a school-wide art competition that lands him a trip to London. But what should be a dream vacation quickly turns into a hilarious disaster when Rafe gets separated from his group and finds himself lost in the bustling streets of a foreign city. With his usual luck, Rafe must navigate the sights of London while trying to stay out of trouble—or at least, not get into too much trouble while exploring a brand new country.

This installment is perfect for children who love fast-paced, funny stories with plenty of heart. James Patterson expertly captures the voice of a misunderstood middle schooler, making it an ideal choice for reluctant readers who enjoy the hybrid format of text and illustrations. If your child is a fan of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or Big Nate, they will find Rafe’s international misadventures absolutely captivating. It is a great choice for readers interested in travel, art, and the awkwardness of growing up.

Highlights:

• A hilarious fish-out-of-water story set in the iconic city of London.
• Engaging illustrations that bring Rafe's imagination and mishaps to life.
• Relatable themes of navigating independence and learning from mistakes.
• Great for fans of humorous, diary-style middle grade fiction.

In Middle School: Born to Rock, the spotlight shifts from Rafe to his hilariously determined younger sister, Georgia Khatchadorian. Georgia is ready to step out of her brother's shadow and prove she has what it takes to win the ultimate Battle of the Bands. However, the road to rock stardom is paved with awkward social encounters, middle school drama, and the constant threat of total public embarrassment. This high-energy story captures the chaotic spirit of pre-teen life with the signature wit and fast-paced action that James Patterson fans adore.

This book is a perfect choice for children who love stories about music, underdogs, and navigating the ups and downs of school life. Ideal for readers interested in funny, relatable protagonists, it offers a fresh perspective on the Khatchadorian family dynamic. Whether your child is a long-time fan of the Middle School series or a newcomer looking for a laugh-out-loud adventure, Georgia's journey to find her voice is sure to resonate.

Highlights:

• Features Georgia Khatchadorian as a strong, funny female lead.
• Explores themes of musical passion and overcoming stage fright.
• Packed with humorous illustrations and relatable middle school scenarios.
• Great for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Dork Diaries.

Rafe Khatchadorian is back in his hometown, and life feels a bit too quiet—until his friend Kasey arrives from Australia and a trendy new Aussie-style coffee shop opens up. In Middle School: G'day, America, Rafe finds himself navigating the hilarious world of hipster culture, part-time jobs, and unexpected rock stardom. When he joins a band led by his former nemesis, Miller the Killer, Rafe has to figure out if he is destined for fame or a total face-plant.

This installment is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and are looking for more illustrated fiction filled with laughs and relatable middle school drama. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in stories about friendship, music, and the chaos of growing up. James Patterson’s signature humor and fast-paced storytelling make this a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy high-energy plots and funny illustrations.

Highlights:

• Features the return of fan-favorite protagonist Rafe Khatchadorian in a new adventure.
• A hilarious blend of school-life struggles and the excitement of joining a rock band.
• Engaging illustrations throughout that bring the story and Rafe's imagination to life.
• Explores themes of friendship and finding one's place in a fun, accessible way.

In Middle School: Master of Disaster, James Patterson brings together an all-star cast of characters for an unforgettable crossover event. Rafe Khatchadorian and Jimmy Ovinsky, the school's most famous "troublemakers," find themselves in an unexpected position: they are in charge of a massive celebration of books and reading. However, when a series of mishaps threatens to turn their big event into a total catastrophe, they must act quickly to save the day. This book is perfect for children who love high-energy stories filled with humor, illustrations, and relatable school-day struggles.

What makes this installment truly special is the inclusion of fan-favorite characters from across Patterson's children's books, including Jamie Grimm from I Funny, Jacky Ha-Ha, and the Kidd family. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in seeing their favorite heroes team up to solve problems. With its fast-paced plot and funny dialogue, it is a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy the Diary of a Wimpy Kid style of storytelling.

Highlights:

• An epic crossover featuring characters from multiple James Patterson series.
• A hilarious and relatable look at middle school life and the chaos of event planning.
• Engaging illustrations that help bring the story and humor to life.
• Themes of teamwork and turning "troublemaker" reputations into something positive.

Rafe Khatchadorian is back, and this time he is trading the familiar halls of Hills Village Middle School for the sunny shores of California! After a period of unusual quiet, Rafe is feeling restless and ready for a change. When he gets the chance to join an all-expenses-paid art field trip, he jumps at the opportunity. But as fans of the series know, where Rafe goes, trouble usually follows. This hilarious installment follows Rafe as he navigates the high-stakes world of art and the unpredictable nature of a cross-country trip.

Perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or Big Nate, this book is an ideal choice for readers interested in funny, relatable stories about surviving middle school. James Patterson’s signature blend of humor and heart makes this a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced plots and engaging illustrations. Whether Rafe is making new friends or getting into his latest fiasco, readers will be rooting for him every step of the way.

Highlights:

• A hilarious cross-country adventure filled with Rafe's classic mishaps.
• Engaging illustrations that bring the story and Rafe's imagination to life.
• Relatable themes of finding one's passion and navigating social challenges.
• Fast-paced storytelling perfect for middle-grade readers and reluctant fans.

Rafe Khatchadorian is back, and this time, middle school has literally become a zoo! In Middle School: It's a Zoo in Here!, Rafe finds himself in the middle of a wild new adventure when his school project takes an unexpected turn. As he navigates the social hierarchy of his classmates and the literal chaos of animal encounters, Rafe must use his wit and artistic creativity to survive another year of academic madness. This installment continues the beloved tradition of blending hilarious storytelling with expressive illustrations that bring Rafe's imaginative world to life.

This book is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or any story that captures the awkward, funny, and relatable moments of growing up. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in school-based humor, underdog stories, and fast-paced plots that keep them turning the pages. Parents will appreciate how the book encourages reluctant readers through its engaging visual format and relatable themes of resilience and self-expression.

Highlights:

• Hilarious illustrations that complement the fast-paced narrative.
• Relatable middle school struggles that resonate with young readers.
• A focus on creativity and thinking outside the box to solve problems.
• Engaging plot involving animals and school-wide chaos.

Rafe Khatchadorian is back, and this time he's trading the hallways of Hills Village Middle School for the freezing tundra of Alaska! In Middle School: Winter Blunderland, Rafe joins a research study on polar bears led by Dr. Daria Deerwin. While he expects a cool adventure, he quickly finds himself facing sub-zero temperatures, his biggest crush yet, and a dangerous mission to save a missing polar bear from poachers. It is a high-stakes, hilarious journey that tests Rafe's courage and creativity in the wild.

This book is a perfect choice for children who love fast-paced, funny stories with plenty of illustrations. Ideal for readers interested in wildlife conservation and environmental themes, James Patterson delivers another hit that balances slapstick humor with heart. It is a great choice for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or anyone looking for an engaging winter-themed adventure that keeps them turning the pages.

Highlights:

• An exciting Alaskan setting filled with polar bears and snowy challenges.
• Relatable middle school humor and awkward first-crush moments.
• A thrilling plot involving environmental protection and stopping poachers.
• Engaging illustrations that make it accessible for reluctant readers.

Rafe Khatchadorian is back, and this time he has hit the jackpot—literally! In Middle School: Million Dollar Mess, Rafe discovers he has inherited a million dollars. But as he quickly learns, more money often means more problems. His family is whisked away to glamorous Beverly Hills, where they must live in a ramshackle house to claim the fortune. To make matters worse, Rafe has to attend St. Benedict’s, the snobbiest school in the country, where he sticks out like a sore thumb among the ultra-wealthy students.

This hilarious installment is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or any story featuring a relatable underdog. Readers will follow Rafe as he navigates a group of bullies even tougher than Miller the Killer and tries to find his place in a world of luxury that feels completely foreign. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in funny school stories that balance laugh-out-loud moments with heart and real-life social themes like bullying and family dynamics.

Highlights:

• A fast-paced, humorous plot that keeps reluctant readers engaged.
• Relatable themes of trying to fit in and staying true to oneself.
• Classic Rafe Khatchadorian antics and fun illustrations.
• Explores the contrast between wealth and personal character.