How to Make Friends and Monsters

Gr 5–7—Seventh-grader Howard Boward is a friendless kid who sits by himself at the back of the cafeteria. He's plagued with a list of social crimes: he's skinny; has white hair that sticks straight up; loves science; wears a unitard as an experiment; and, worst of all, is smart. His worried mother gives him a copy of How to Make Friends, and he takes the book to heart. Advised to "Be Yourself," he sets up a lab in the garage and decides to make a friend. The result is Franklin Stine, a kind, lumbering creature made of Wonder Putty plus DNA from the hair of zoo animals and a kind schoolgirl. Disguised as a Canadian foreign exchange student, Franklin wows the coach and team with his football prowess. He's able to defend his creator from the bullying UPs ("uber-populars") while equally befriending them. Howard figures that Franklin's popularity means an end of their friendship. But Franklin gets Howard elected class president and ensures that he makes an unlikely football touchdown. Howard becomes How-Cool, beloved by the UPs while his loyalty and kindness are put to the test. Small cartoon-style illustrations are scattered throughout. Bates tells an entertaining and warmhearted tale concerning the struggles of middle-school friendships. Hilarious scenes and details and one-liners create a richly rewarding story.—Diane McCabe, John Muir Elementary, Santa Monica, CA