An unbelievably hilarious middle-grade true story from bestselling author Jordan Sonnenblick. In a typical school year, every kid has one or two things go wrong. But for Jordan, there's A LOT going wrong ALL THE TIME. Take this year. Here are some of the things going wrong: His teacher hates him. Like, really hates him. Like, is totally out to get him even when he's trying to be good, and is willing to fail him on the simplest things, like show and tell. He has a slight breathing problem because of his asthma. And breathing is never really an optional activity. His pet snake has given birth to way, way, way too many baby snakes, all who need a home. He is finding that becoming The World's Best Drummer in no time whatsoever is maybe not the easiest goal. There are bullies ready to stomp him when all he has to defend himself with is a lunchbox. And all this doesn't even include the freak swing set accident, the fears inside his head, or the funniest class presentation ever. By keeping his cool (some of the time), banging on the drums (a lot), and keeping his sense of humour (all the time), Jordan's going to try to make it through the year and grow up to write a book about it!

A brave and beautiful story that will make readers laugh, and break their hearts at the same time. Now with a special note from the author

Steven has a totally normal life (well, almost).

He plays drums in the All-City Jazz Band (whose members call him the Peasant), has a crush on the hottest girl in school (who doesn't even know he's alive), and is constantly annoyed by his younger brother, Jeffrey (who is cuter than cute - which is also pretty annoying). But when Jeffrey gets sick, Steven's world is turned upside down, and he is forced to deal with his brother's illness, his parents' attempts to keep the family in one piece, his homework, the band, girls, and Dangerous Pie (yes, you'll have to read the book to find out what that is ).

What would you do if your best friend was:
1. Imaginary?
2. An oversize blue chimp in surfer shorts? (Potentially embarrassing, but hey, no one else can see him . . . right?)
3. Proposing a plan to help you improve your life?
4. Did we say imaginary?
5. Driving you crazy?!?!
Now you have an idea of what Willie Ryan's life is like when he meets Dodger. It's the beginning of a lot of trouble--and a friendship you'll never forget!