Books about cultural differences

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.

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.