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Books about school life

104 books with this theme • Page 1 of 5

Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova

Awkward

by Svetlana Chmakova

Peppi Torres is just trying to survive her first day at Berrybrook Middle School when she makes a huge mistake. In a moment of panic to avoid being teased, she trips a quiet boy named Jamie and runs away. This "awkward" moment haunts her as she tries to find her place in the school's competitive club scene. Joining the Art Club seems like a great idea, but soon she finds herself caught in a fierce rivalry with the Science Club, where Jamie just happens to be a star member.

Svetlana Chmakova's Awkward is a masterclass in middle school dynamics, capturing the genuine anxiety and humor of pre-teen life. It is perfect for children who love graphic novels like Raina Telgemeier's Smile or Victoria Jamieson's Roller Girl. This story is an ideal choice for readers interested in school stories that balance lighthearted comedy with meaningful lessons about kindness, making amends, and standing up for what is right.

Highlights:

  • Relatable exploration of social anxiety and middle school "rules."
  • Engaging rivalry between the Art Club and the Science Club.
  • Diverse cast of characters with distinct personalities and backgrounds.
  • Beautifully illustrated panels that bring the school setting to life.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Graphic Novels and ComicsMiddle Grade Fiction+3 more
Babymouse: Babymouse for President by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse: Babymouse for President

by Jennifer L. Holm

Get ready for the campaign trail with everyone's favorite spunky mouse! In Babymouse for President, the 16th installment of this beloved graphic novel series, Babymouse decides it is time to take charge of the student council. With promises of cupcakes in every locker, she is ready to lead, but the competition is tougher than she imagined. From facing off against the meangirl coalition led by Felicia Furrypaws to even competing against her own locker, Babymouse must figure out if she has the voice and the heart to be a true leader.

This book is perfect for children who love funny, fast-paced stories with relatable school-day drama. Ideal for readers interested in graphic novels, it combines expressive illustrations with witty dialogue that keeps kids engaged from start to finish. It is a great choice for reluctant readers or those transitioning from picture books to longer narratives, offering a hilarious look at the ups and downs of school elections and the importance of staying true to oneself.

Highlights:

  • Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence.
  • Relatable themes of school politics, leadership, and standing up to bullies.
  • Full of humor, imagination, and the iconic pink-hued artwork fans love.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Graphic Novels and ComicsHumor+1 more
Babymouse: Cupcake Tycoon by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse: Cupcake Tycoon

by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse is back and this time she has her sights set on a sugary prize! In Babymouse: Cupcake Tycoon, the school library is holding a fundraiser, and our favorite sassy mouse is determined to sell more cupcakes than anyone else. With dreams of winning the grand prize, Babymouse dives headfirst into the world of business, but she soon realizes that being a tycoon is much harder than it looks. Between mishaps and stiff competition, will she be able to come out on top?

This installment in the beloved graphic novel series is perfect for children who love funny, fast-paced stories with relatable school-day drama. Ideal for readers interested in entrepreneurship or those who enjoy a mix of reality and wild imagination, this book captures the spirit of perseverance with a side of frosting. It is a great choice for transitioning readers who are moving from picture books to more complex narratives but still appreciate visual storytelling.

Highlights:

  • Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence.
  • Relatable themes of school fundraisers and healthy competition.
  • Hilarious imagination sequences that Babymouse fans adore.
  • Encourages perseverance and goal-setting in a fun way.
Ages 6-7Early Chapter Book
Graphic Novels and ComicsHumor+2 more
Babymouse: Dragonslayer by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse: Dragonslayer

by Jennifer L. Holm

In Babymouse: Dragonslayer, our favorite imaginative mouse is back for her eleventh adventure! While Babymouse would much rather be fighting dragons and living out her heroic fantasy dreams, she finds herself facing a much scarier challenge: the school math team. As the Math Olympics approach, Babymouse must balance her vivid daydreams of being a legendary dragonslayer with the reality of long division and competitive equations. This installment perfectly blends the whimsical world of Babymouse's imagination with the relatable struggles of elementary school life.

This graphic novel is a fantastic choice for children who love humor and relatable characters. Jennifer L. Holm's signature style, combined with Matthew Holm's iconic pink-and-black illustrations, makes this an ideal pick for reluctant readers or those transitioning from picture books to longer stories. Parents looking for books that encourage perseverance and celebrate unique interests will find this a great addition to their child's library. It is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or The Bad Guys.

Highlights:

  • Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence.
  • Relatable themes of school competition and overcoming academic anxiety.
  • Hilarious fantasy sequences that spark the imagination.
  • Strong female protagonist with a big personality and relatable flaws.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Graphic Novels and ComicsHumor+3 more
Babymouse: Heartbreaker by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse: Heartbreaker

by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse: Heartbreaker is the fifth installment in the beloved graphic novel series by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm. In this pink-infused adventure, Babymouse is ready for the most romantic day of the year: Valentine's Day! She dreams of glittery hearts, sweet candy, and the perfect school dance. However, things rarely go as planned for our sassy, imaginative protagonist. Between navigating the social hurdles of the school hallway and trying to secure an invitation to the big dance, Babymouse must learn what truly matters when it comes to friendship and fun.

This book is perfect for children who love funny, relatable stories about school life and those who enjoy the visual storytelling of graphic novels. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in lighthearted humor and characters with big personalities. With its signature pink-and-black artwork and witty dialogue, it remains a great choice for reluctant readers who might find traditional chapter books intimidating but crave an engaging, fast-paced story.

Highlights:

  • Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence.
  • Relatable themes of school dances, crushes, and social dynamics.
  • Hilarious dream sequences that showcase Babymouse's vivid imagination.
  • A heartwarming message about being yourself and valuing true friends.
Ages 6-7Early Chapter Book
Graphic Novels and ComicsHumor+2 more
Babymouse: Mad Scientist by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse: Mad Scientist

by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse is back and ready to conquer the school science fair in Babymouse: Mad Scientist. In this fourteenth installment of the beloved graphic novel series, our imaginative protagonist dreams of scientific greatness but finds herself struggling with the reality of petri dishes and hypothesis testing. When she accidentally discovers a new species of amoeba named Squish, Babymouse thinks she has finally found her ticket to the blue ribbon. However, managing a microscopic pet and a chaotic science project proves to be more explosive than she ever anticipated.

This book is perfect for children who love funny, fast-paced stories with relatable school-day struggles. Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm create a vibrant world that blends everyday life with Babymouse's wild daydreams. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in science, humor, and the trials of being a student. Parents looking for engaging graphic novels that encourage a love for STEM and creativity will find this a great addition to their child's library.

Highlights:

  • Engaging graphic novel format that appeals to reluctant readers.
  • Explores themes of scientific curiosity and the importance of persistence.
  • Features the hilarious and relatable daydreams of the iconic Babymouse.
  • Introduces Squish, who later became the star of his own spin-off series.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Graphic Novels and ComicsHumor+2 more
Babymouse: Our hero by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse: Our hero

by Jennifer L. Holm

Meet Babymouse, a spunky little mouse with a big imagination and an even bigger heart. In Babymouse: Our Hero, readers are introduced to the pink-loving protagonist who dreams of being a glamorous hero but often finds herself facing the everyday struggles of school life. From the dreaded game of dodgeball to the social pressures of being invited to the coolest party of the year, Babymouse navigates her world with humor and a flair for the dramatic. This graphic novel is a perfect introduction to the series, blending relatable childhood experiences with wild, imaginative daydreams.

Ideal for readers interested in funny, fast-paced stories, this book is a great choice for children transitioning from picture books to independent reading. The expressive black-and-white illustrations with signature pink accents make it visually engaging and easy to follow. Parents looking for books that encourage resilience and self-confidence will find Babymouse to be an endearing role model who never gives up, even when things don't go her way. It is perfect for children who love Narwhal and Jelly or The Bad Guys.

Highlights:

  • Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence.
  • Relatable themes of school social dynamics and overcoming fears.
  • Hilarious imaginative sequences that spark creativity.
  • Iconic pink-and-black art style that appeals to young visual learners.
Ages 6-7Early Chapter Book
Graphic Novels and ComicsHumor+2 more
Babymouse: Puppy Love by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse: Puppy Love

by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse is back and this time she has a big heart and an even bigger wish: she wants a dog! In Babymouse: Puppy Love, our favorite sassy mouse is tired of her boring goldfish and dreams of a loyal canine companion to join her on her many adventures. However, as Babymouse soon discovers, taking care of a pet is much harder than it looks in her vivid imagination. This eighth installment in the award-winning graphic novel series perfectly captures the trials and tribulations of elementary school life with a pink-hued, humorous twist.

This book is a fantastic choice for children who love funny, relatable stories about everyday struggles mixed with wild daydreams. Parents looking for engaging books for reluctant readers will find the graphic novel format ideal, as the expressive illustrations and snappy dialogue keep the plot moving quickly. It is an ideal pick for readers interested in stories about responsibility, pets, and the ups and downs of friendship. Whether it's Valentine's Day or any other day of the year, Babymouse's quest for the perfect puppy will resonate with any child who has ever begged for a pet of their own.

Highlights:

  • Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence in young fans.
  • Relatable themes of pet ownership and learning responsibility.
  • Hilarious imagination sequences that contrast with Babymouse's real-life mishaps.
  • Perfect for fans of the Bad Guys or Narwhal and Jelly series.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Graphic Novels and ComicsHumor+1 more
Babymouse: Rock Star by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse: Rock Star

by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse is back and ready to take center stage in Babymouse: Rock Star! In this fourth installment of the beloved graphic novel series, our favorite imaginative mouse is facing a major challenge: the school concert. While Babymouse dreams of being a world-famous rock star with screaming fans, flashy outfits, and incredible guitar solos, the reality of playing the recorder in the school band is a bit less glamorous. As the big day approaches, Babymouse wonders if she will truly be the star of the show or if her musical career will be all washed up before it has even started.

This book is perfect for children who love funny, relatable stories about school life and the power of imagination. With its iconic pink-and-black illustrations and fast-paced humor, it is an ideal choice for readers interested in music, performance, and overcoming stage fright. Parents looking for engaging books to encourage reluctant readers will find Babymouse to be a fantastic gateway into the world of independent reading. It is a great choice for kids who enjoy character-driven stories with a lot of heart and even more laughs.

Highlights:

  • Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence for early readers.
  • Relatable themes of school performance, practice, and big dreams.
  • Humorous daydream sequences that spark creativity and laughter.
  • Perfect for fans of The Bad Guys or Narwhal and Jelly.
  • Teaches perseverance and self-expression in a fun, accessible way.
Ages 6-7Early Chapter Book
Graphic Novels and ComicsHumor+1 more
Babymouse: The Musical by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse: The Musical

by Jennifer L. Holm

Get ready for the spotlight! In Babymouse: The Musical, our favorite sassy and imaginative mouse is determined to become a star. As the school musical tryouts begin, Babymouse has her heart set on the lead role. However, the road to Broadway—or at least the school auditorium—is filled with unexpected hurdles, including her nemesis Felicia Furrypaws and her own signature "bad hair days." This tenth installment in the award-winning series perfectly captures the drama, excitement, and humor of school theater.

This book is perfect for children who love funny graphic novels and relatable stories about school life. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in performing arts, music, and stories where the underdog tries to shine. With its iconic pink-and-black illustrations and fast-paced dialogue, it is a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy visual storytelling. Parents will appreciate the positive messages about perseverance and staying true to oneself, even when things do not go exactly as planned.

Highlights:

  • Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence.
  • Relatable themes of school tryouts, competition, and ambition.
  • Hilarious dream sequences that showcase Babymouse's vivid imagination.
  • A great introduction to the world of theater and musicals for young readers.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Graphic Novels and ComicsHumor+1 more
Big Nate Flips Out by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate Flips Out

by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate is back and messier than ever in Big Nate Flips Out! Nate Wright is the undisputed king of detention and a cartooning genius, but his legendary lack of organization finally catches up with him. When Nate's sloppiness causes a major problem for his best friend, Francis, Nate realizes he needs to change his ways. Can the world's most disorganized middle schooler actually become neat, or will the pressure cause him to flip out? This hilarious installment in the New York Times bestselling series is a must-read for kids who enjoy relatable school-day struggles and laugh-out-loud antics.

This book is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and are looking for more funny, illustrated stories. It is an ideal choice for reluctant readers who are drawn to the hybrid format of text and comics. Parents will appreciate the themes of taking responsibility for one's actions and the importance of supporting friends through thick and thin. Whether your child is a long-time Nate fan or new to P.S. 38, this adventure is sure to keep them entertained from start to finish.

Highlights:

  • Engaging hybrid format featuring hilarious comic strips and illustrations.
  • Relatable middle school themes like friendship, school projects, and personal growth.
  • Fast-paced humor that appeals to both avid and reluctant readers.
  • A great lesson on the impact of personal habits on others.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Big Nate Flips Out by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate Flips Out

by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate is back in the fifth installment of the New York Times bestselling series! In Big Nate Flips Out, our favorite detention-prone cartoonist, Nate Wright, faces his biggest challenge yet: organization. When Nate's legendary sloppiness finally pushes his best friend Francis to the breaking point, Nate realizes he needs to change his ways. This hilarious story follows Nate's attempt to transform from a total mess into a neat freak, leading to the kind of chaotic and comedic situations that fans have come to love.

Perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, this book combines traditional prose with comic-strip illustrations, making it an ideal choice for reluctant readers or those who enjoy visual storytelling. It is a great choice for parents looking for stories that explore the ups and downs of middle school friendships and the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions, all while keeping the tone light and funny.

Highlights:

  • Engaging hybrid format with hilarious comic illustrations.
  • Relatable themes of school life, friendship, and personal growth.
  • Fast-paced humor that keeps young readers entertained.
  • Perfect for fans of Jeff Kinney and Lincoln Peirce.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionGraphic Novels and Comics+2 more
Big Nate Goes for Broke by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate Goes for Broke

by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate is back and funnier than ever in Big Nate Goes for Broke, the fourth installment of Lincoln Peirce's hit series. This time, Nate Wright and his friends at P.S. 38 are facing their biggest challenge yet: the Ultimate Snowdown. They are up against the bullies from Jefferson Middle School, a rival school that seems to beat them at everything from sports to academics. As the competition heats up, Nate must find a way to lead his team to victory and finally prove that they aren't just losers.

This book is a perfect choice for children who love fast-paced, hilarious stories that mirror the ups and downs of middle school life. The unique hybrid format, blending traditional text with expressive comic-strip illustrations, makes it an ideal pick for reluctant readers who might find dense novels intimidating. Fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Dork Diaries will feel right at home with Nate's sarcastic wit and relatable mishaps.

Highlights:

  • Engaging mix of text and comic-strip art that keeps readers turning pages.
  • Relatable themes of school rivalries, friendship, and overcoming underdog status.
  • Laugh-out-loud humor that appeals to both children and parents.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionGraphic Novels and Comics+2 more
Big Nate Lives It Up by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate Lives It Up

by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate is back and funnier than ever in Big Nate Lives It Up, the seventh installment of the hit series. This time, Principal Nichols tasks Nate with a special mission: being a "buddy" to the new kid, Breckenridge Puffington III. However, Nate quickly realizes that Breckenridge is a total "fun-sponge" who prefers doodling plants over Nate's high-energy antics. As Nate tries to navigate this awkward new friendship, he discovers there might be more to Breckenridge than meets the eye. This book is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and enjoy stories filled with humor, school-day drama, and plenty of illustrations.

Ideal for readers interested in relatable school experiences and those who appreciate a protagonist who isn't exactly the teacher's pet, this novel combines a fast-paced plot with hilarious comic strips. It is a great choice for reluctant readers who are drawn to hybrid novels that blend text with visual storytelling. Parents will appreciate the themes of patience and finding common ground with people who seem different at first glance.

Highlights:

  • Hilarious school-based humor that resonates with middle-grade students.
  • Engaging hybrid format featuring Nate's signature doodles and comic strips.
  • Explores themes of friendship, patience, and welcoming new students.
  • Perfect for fans of Jeff Kinney and Lincoln Peirce’s signature comedic style.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Big Nate on a Roll by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate on a Roll

by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate is back and funnier than ever in Big Nate on a Roll, the third installment of the hit series. This time, Nate Wright is determined to be the top dog in his scout troop, but there is one major obstacle standing in his way: Artur. Known as 'Mr. Perfect,' Artur seems to succeed at everything he touches, leaving Nate stuck in a frustrating second place. As the competition for the grand prize heats up, readers will follow Nate through a series of hilarious mishaps and clever schemes as he tries to reclaim his glory.

This book is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or other hybrid graphic novels. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in funny school stories and relatable social dynamics. Parents looking for a book that encourages a love of reading through humor and engaging illustrations will find this a great choice for their kids, especially those who might be reluctant to pick up a traditional novel.

Highlights:

  • Features a hilarious rivalry between Nate and the seemingly perfect Artur.
  • Perfect for fans of funny school stories and scout troop adventures.
  • Engaging hybrid format with plenty of comic-style illustrations.
  • Great for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced, humorous plots.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Big Nate Strikes Again by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate Strikes Again

by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate is back and ready to conquer middle school, but things aren't going exactly as planned. In Big Nate Strikes Again, our self-described genius finds himself in a double-dose of trouble. First, he is paired with his arch-nemesis, Gina, for a major class project assigned by his most-dreaded teacher, Mrs. Godfrey. To make matters even more complicated, Gina joins Nate's fleeceball team just as he is aiming for his first-ever championship title. This hilarious comic-strip novel perfectly captures the ups and downs of school life, from avoiding detention to dealing with competitive classmates.

This book is a perfect choice for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or Dog Man. It is ideal for readers interested in funny, relatable stories that combine traditional prose with engaging illustrations. Parents will appreciate how the format encourages reluctant readers to dive into a longer book while keeping them entertained with Nate's witty observations and mischievous schemes. Whether Nate is trying to outsmart Gina or lead his team to victory, his journey is filled with humor and heart.

Highlights:

  • Relatable middle school setting that resonates with young readers.
  • Engaging hybrid format featuring comic strips and illustrations throughout.
  • Focuses on themes of teamwork, dealing with rivalry, and perseverance.
  • Fast-paced humor that keeps kids laughing and turning pages.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionGraphic Novels and Comics+2 more
Big Nate Strikes Again by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate Strikes Again

by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate is back and funnier than ever in Big Nate Strikes Again, the second installment of the New York Times bestselling series. This time, Nate finds himself in a double bind: he's paired with his ultimate rival, Gina, for a major class project assigned by his "Godzilla" teacher, Mrs. Godfrey. As if school wasn't hard enough, Gina also joins Nate's fleeceball team just as he's aiming for his first-ever championship. Will Nate manage to lead his team to victory, or will Gina's perfectionism ruin his shot at glory?

Perfect for children who love Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Dork Diaries, this book combines hilarious text with engaging comic-strip illustrations. It's an ideal choice for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced, relatable stories about the ups and downs of middle school life. Parents looking for books that encourage a love of reading through humor and visual storytelling will find Big Nate a fantastic addition to their child's bookshelf.

Highlights:

  • Relatable middle school humor and situations that keep kids laughing.
  • Engaging hybrid format of text and comic illustrations perfect for visual learners.
  • Explores important themes of teamwork, perseverance, and dealing with rivals.
  • A great choice for fans of Jeff Kinney and Raina Telgemeier.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionGraphic Novels and Comics+2 more
Big Nate: Blasts Off by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate: Blasts Off

by Lincoln Peirce

Introduce your child to Nate Wright, the energetic and often misunderstood protagonist of the beloved Big Nate series. In Big Nate: Blasts Off, Nate faces a whirlwind of middle school drama, from his secret crush on Ruby to a public spat with his rival, Randy Betancourt, that makes headlines in the school paper. This eighth installment in the New York Times bestselling series is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and enjoy fast-paced, funny stories about navigating the ups and downs of school life.

The story centers on Nate's resilience as he tries to bounce back from a scrap that lands him in hot water. Between dodging detention and preparing for the legendary annual Mud Bowl, Nate must use his wit and doodling skills to stay on top. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in relatable school adventures, friendship dynamics, and high-energy sports stories. Parents will appreciate how the book encourages a love of reading through its engaging hybrid format of text and comic illustrations, making it a great choice for reluctant readers.

Highlights:

  • Hilarious middle school antics and relatable social situations that keep kids laughing.
  • Engaging hybrid format with plenty of fun illustrations and doodles that support reading comprehension.
  • Strong themes of perseverance and sportsmanship during the climactic annual Mud Bowl.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionGraphic Novels and Comics+2 more
Big Nate: Blasts Off by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate: Blasts Off

by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate is back and ready for action in Big Nate: Blasts Off, the eighth installment of the New York Times bestselling series. Nate Wright, the self-proclaimed genius and coolest doodler at P.S. 38, has his hands full this time. Between navigating a major crush on Ruby and dealing with the fallout of a public scrap with his rival, Randy Betancourt, Nate's life is more chaotic than ever. To make matters worse, his reputation is on the line in the Weekly Bugle, and he has to find a way to bounce back before the annual Mud Bowl competition.

This book is a perfect choice for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or the Dog Man graphic novels. The hybrid format, which blends traditional narrative with hilarious comic strips and doodles, makes it an ideal choice for reluctant readers or those who enjoy visual storytelling. Parents will appreciate how the story explores relatable middle school themes like social standing, school rivalries, and the importance of perseverance, all while keeping the tone light and genuinely funny.

Highlights:

  • Engaging hybrid format with text and comic illustrations that keep young readers hooked.
  • Relatable school-based drama involving friendships, crushes, and sports.
  • Hilarious protagonist whose optimistic but often misguided schemes provide constant entertainment.
  • Great for fans of the Big Nate animated series on Paramount+ and Nickelodeon.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Big Nate: In a Class by Himself by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate: In a Class by Himself

by Lincoln Pierce

Meet Nate Wright, a self-proclaimed genius and future legend who is currently navigating the treacherous waters of the sixth grade. In Big Nate: In a Class by Himself, readers are introduced to the hilarious world of a boy who knows he is destined for greatness—even if his teachers and the school principal don't quite see it yet. From surviving his dad's toxic oatmeal to navigating the terrifying wrath of Mrs. Godfrey (aka Godzilla), Nate's day is a non-stop series of accidental mishaps and comedic disasters.

This book is the perfect choice for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and are looking for more laugh-out-loud school adventures. With its unique blend of traditional narrative and comic-strip illustrations, it is an ideal pick for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced stories and visual humor. Parents will appreciate how the story captures the relatable struggles of middle school life while keeping the tone light, energetic, and incredibly funny. It is a great choice for encouraging independent reading through humor and relatable characters.

Highlights:

  • Hilarious hybrid format combining text with expressive comic illustrations.
  • Relatable middle school themes including friendship, teacher trouble, and self-identity.
  • Perfect for fans of Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Dog Man.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Big Nate: In a Class by Himself by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate: In a Class by Himself

by Lincoln Peirce

Meet Nate Wright, a self-proclaimed genius and accidental mischief-maker who is definitely destined for greatness—even if his teachers don't see it yet. In Big Nate: In a Class by Himself, readers follow Nate through a chaotic day of middle school that includes toxic oatmeal, a run-in with the school principal, and a series of unfortunate events with his nemesis, Mrs. Godfrey. Despite the hurdles, Nate remains convinced that a fortune cookie's promise of surpassing all others is about to come true.

This hilarious hybrid novel, blending traditional text with expressive comic strips, is the perfect choice for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. It captures the authentic, often awkward experience of navigating middle school with wit and relatability. Ideal for reluctant readers, Nate's energetic personality and the book's fast-paced humor make it an engaging page-turner that keeps kids laughing from start to finish.

Highlights:

  • Perfect for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Dork Diaries.
  • Engaging hybrid format with fun illustrations and comic strips.
  • Relatable middle school humor that appeals to reluctant readers.
  • A great introduction to a long-running, beloved series.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Big Nate: In the Zone by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate: In the Zone

by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate: In the Zone is the sixth installment in the wildly popular series by Lincoln Peirce, featuring the irrepressible Nate Wright. Nate is a self-proclaimed genius and cartooning master who usually finds himself in detention rather than the spotlight. In this hilarious adventure, Nate’s luck has hit rock bottom—until he discovers a lucky charm that flips his world upside down. Suddenly, everything Nate touches turns to gold, and he is officially 'in the zone.' But as any middle schooler knows, luck can be a fickle friend, and Nate must figure out how to stay on top before his winning streak runs out.

This illustrated novel is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or Dog Man. It combines fast-paced storytelling with funny comic strips that keep reluctant readers engaged. Parents will appreciate the relatable school-day struggles and the emphasis on resilience and friendship. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in humorous stories about navigating the ups and downs of middle school life with a creative twist.

Highlights:

  • Hilarious blend of text and comic-style illustrations.
  • Relatable themes of school, friendship, and overcoming bad luck.
  • Perfect for fans of Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid.
  • Engaging for reluctant readers who enjoy visual storytelling.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Big Nate: In the Zone by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate: In the Zone

by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate: In the Zone is the sixth installment in the New York Times bestselling series by Lincoln Peirce, featuring the one and only Nate Wright. Nate is a self-proclaimed cartooning genius, the king of detention, and a dedicated Cheez Doodle connoisseur. However, Nate’s luck has been at an all-time low lately. Everything changes when he gets a boost from Chad’s lucky foot, sending Nate into an unprecedented winning streak where he is finally "in the zone." This hilarious illustrated novel is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and are looking for a relatable, laugh-out-loud school story that captures the essence of being a middle school underdog.

Ideal for readers interested in school-based comedies and graphic-hybrid novels, this book captures the ups and downs of sixth-grade life with wit and charm. Whether Nate is navigating the social hierarchies of the hallway, dealing with his teachers, or trying to maintain his newfound lucky streak, his adventures are always entertaining and high-energy. It is a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced plots and plenty of expressive illustrations to keep them engaged from start to finish. Parents will appreciate the humor that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic addition to any home library.

Highlights:

  • Features the iconic humor and cartooning of the beloved Nate Wright.
  • Explores themes of luck, friendship, and the chaotic reality of middle school life.
  • Perfect for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Dork Diaries, and The Terrible Two.
  • Engaging hybrid format with text and comic-style illustrations that appeal to visual learners.
  • A New York Times bestselling series that has been adapted into an animated show.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionGraphic Novels and Comics+2 more
Big Nate: Lives It Up by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate: Lives It Up

by Lincoln Pierce

Introduce your child to Nate Wright, the ultimate doodler and middle school rebel. In this seventh installment of the New York Times bestselling series, Nate faces his biggest challenge yet: being assigned as a "buddy" to the new kid, Breckenridge Puffington III. While Nate is all about fun and mischief, Breckenridge is a plant-loving "fun-sponge" who seems strangely familiar. This book is a perfect choice for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and enjoy stories filled with humor, school-day antics, and relatable social struggles.

Ideal for readers interested in funny graphic novels, Big Nate: Lives It Up combines witty dialogue with Lincoln Peirce's signature comic-style illustrations. It captures the essence of middle school life—from navigating tricky friendships to dealing with quirky teachers. Parents will appreciate how this book engages even the most reluctant readers with its fast-paced plot and visual storytelling. It is a great choice for kids who want a laugh-out-loud experience while learning about patience and the unexpected bonds of friendship.

Highlights:

  • Hilarious school-based adventures and relatable middle school drama.
  • Engaging hybrid format with plenty of comic-style illustrations.
  • Explores themes of friendship, patience, and staying true to oneself.
  • Perfect for fans of Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid series.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Books about school life for Kids & Teens (104 Books)