8th Grade Superzero

8th Grade Superzero by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich. hardcover edition. ISBN: 9780545096768.

In this terrific debut, a Brooklyn middle-schooler finds the superhero within himself thanks to old friends, new dreams, and a pair of magical "Dora the Explorer" sneakers. Ever since a deeply unfortunate incident earlier this year, Reggies been known as "Pukey" McKnight at his high-intensity Brooklyn middle school. He wants to turn his image around, but he has other things on his mind as well: his father, whos out of a job; his best friends, Ruthie and Joe C.; his former best friend Donovan, whos now become a jerk; and of course, the beautiful Mialonie. The elections for school president are coming up, but with his notorious nickname and "nothing" social status, Reggie wouldnt stand a chance, if he even had the courage to run. (CONT.)