Books about fitting in

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.

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.

Sunny Lewin is officially a middle schooler, and things are getting complicated! While her best friend Deb is suddenly obsessed with lip gloss, fashion, and acting cool to impress boys, Sunny feels left behind. She isn't sure she wants to trade her interests for makeup and magazines. Everything changes when she discovers the world of Dungeons & Dragons. In the basement with her new friends, Sunny can be a monster-slaying hero without worrying about her hair or her outfit. But can she balance her old friendships with her new passion?

Sunny Rolls the Dice is a heartwarming and hilarious graphic novel that perfectly captures the awkward transition into adolescence. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in 1970s nostalgia, tabletop gaming, and the struggle to stay true to oneself. This book is perfect for children who love the Smile series by Raina Telgemeier or fans of relatable coming-of-age stories that celebrate being unique.

Highlights:

• Relatable middle school drama about friendship and fitting in.
• Introduces the fun and creativity of Dungeons & Dragons.
• Vibrant graphic novel format that appeals to visual learners.
• Set in the groovy 1970s with fun historical details.