The Secrets to Ruling School (Without Even Trying) by Neil Swaab (Children's, 9 years +, 9/10E)

  July 2015, Abrams, 240 pages, Hardback, Review copy 

Content: craziness, humour

Summary from Abrams 

It’s the first week of middle school, i.e., the Worst Place in the Entire World. How do you survive in a place where there are tough kids twice your size, sadistic teachers, and restrictions that make jail look like a five-star resort? Easy: with the help of Max Corrigan, middle school “expert” and life coach. Let Max teach you how to win over not just one, but all of the groups in school, from the Preps to the Band Geeks. Along the way, Max offers surefire advice and revealing tips on how to get through universal middle school experiences like gym class, detention, faking sick, dealing with jocks and bullies, and acing exams (without getting caught cheating). 

Nayu's thoughts 

On seeing this for reviewing I had to have it, as it reminded me of a similar title I read when I was at school (I can't remember the title, which is rather annoying!) It is bonkers, a lot of the secrets would not help you survive at school (& would get you in trouble), but that's the fun of it. It deals with every subject under the sun that you can think of regarding school with much humour. 

I think it will help those starting school relax a little, knowing that what they experience shouldn't be as bad as what's in the book. The manga style illustrations will help coax reluctant readers to take a peek, and provide more laughs for all who open the pages. There's nothing wrong with the book regarding grading, it just isn't a perfect read for me. 

Find out more on Neil's website.

Available at most bookstores including NRC affiliate Foyles

Suggested read

This makes me think of the funny readMiddle School: Save Rafe by James Patterson, Chris Tebbetts, and Laura Park (Children's, 9 years +, 9/10E, short 'n' sweet review)