The Secrets to Ruling School (Without Even Trying)

Gr 4–7—Seventh-grader Max Corrigan breaks the fourth wall and assumes that readers are potential clients who need his advice about how to rule the middle school scene. Max is a slick huckster who claims no problem is too big or too small—make friends, destroy enemies, get teachers off your back, hack the school's network, and more! Just step right into his office (toilet stall), and pay no mind to the gaseous permanent resident of the stall next door. This central conceit will only work if said readers buy into all of the schemes Max hatches as each attempt fails. Max is nothing if not persistent. He has an arsenal of excuses and zero insight. He's also an equal opportunity offender. Part of his plans rely on readers/clients infiltrating most of the school cliques. Each clique is portrayed stereotypically, but Max really seems to have it in for the principal. What's meant to be subversive, ironic fun becomes mired in meanness and cynicism. The pace is frenetic as Max races to achieve his promises in five school days. There are tons of sidebars with lists and tips as well as commentary from students.