I Even Funnier: A Middle School Story
Middle-school comic perseveres in funny, poignant sequel.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that I Even Funnier: A Middle School Story, by James Patterson and coauthor Chris Grabenstein, is a great follow-up to I Funny: A Middle School Story. From his wheelchair, hero Jamie continues his quest to be a stand-up comedian, despite bullies and the hard luck life's dealt him. Girls, friendships, and a mean principal all contribute to a touching, insightful story, enhanced by a primer on telling jokes and some age-appropriate humor. There's mild kissing and very middle school-appropriate dialogue between boys and girls.
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What's the Story?
In I Funny, Jamie wins a regional comedy competition after suffering many hard knocks. In I EVEN FUNNIER: A MIDDLE SCHOOL STORY, the story focuses on his efforts to win the world title, despite a fresh set of challenges: His best friend Gaynor's mom has cancer, which causes problems for Gaynor at school, and his supportive Uncle Frankie suffers a heart attack. But Jamie never loses his positive attitude or the ability to see the humor in a situation, as he remains resilient, committed to his friends, and uncannily able to remember jokes -- good and bad. As he perseveres in his quest to become the Planet's Funniest Comic, Jamie finds rewards and learns some good life lessons.
Is It Any Good?
Hilarious in parts, I Even Funnier also has sad moments. As in the other Middle School books, author James Patterson combines a fast-paced style with great graphics to tell an appealing story. There's a bit too much emphasis on bullying, but he represents middle-school problems with a lot of insight and humor. Readers will identify with Jamie and his friends; Jamie's character reads just right, with no self-pity and a lively appreciation for the humor of life's difficult situations.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Jamie's disability. How does being in a wheelchair affect the way people treat him? Discuss how stereotypes affect people with disabilities.
James Patterson mentions a lot of products in his books. Do they improve the story, or are they just product placements?
Why are books about middle school so popular? Which ones have you read that get it right?
Book Details
- Authors: James Patterson, Chris Grabenstein
- Illustrator: Laura Park
- Genre: Humor
- Topics: Friendship, Great Boy Role Models
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
- Publication date: December 9, 2013
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 9 - 12
- Number of pages: 368
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: December 13, 2018
Our Editors Recommend
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I Funny: A Middle School Story
Middle school humor mixes with moving disability subplot.
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Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life: Middle School, Book 1
Irreverent look at school life explores complex feelings.
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How to Survive Middle School
Funny middle school survival story for boys and hamsters.
For kids who love comedy, classic and contemporary
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