Books Like...

Losing Joe's Place by Gordon Korman is a fun YA book that follows the misadventures of a teenage boy and his friends as they take over his brother's apartment in New York City for the summer. The book is filled with action, humor, and mishaps as the trio navigates through unexpected challenges, including turning a greasy spoon restaurant into a fine dining place and accidentally putting the building owner in the hospital.

The writing style of Losing Joe's Place is described as fast-paced, madcap, and filled with inside jokes that keep readers entertained. The plot revolves around the three friends from small-town Ontario, their eccentric personalities, and the humorous situations they find themselves in while on their summer trip to Toronto.

A Semester in the Life of a Garbage Bag by Gordon Korman is a hilarious and unique story that follows two high school students, Sean and Raymond, as they navigate through chaos and humor. The plot revolves around the duo attempting to pass off one of their grandfathers as a famous poet for a school assignment, leading to a series of funny and suspenseful situations. The book is filled with terrific, loveable characters, including the unforgettable Jardine, and features poems by Gavin Gunhold, invented by the characters for their school project.

Who is Bugs Potter? by Gordon Korman follows the adventures of David "Bugs" Potter, a rock-obsessed drummer attending a classical performance event in Toronto. Accompanied by his anxious roommate, Adam Webb, Bugs aims to enjoy the vibrant city life despite the serious schedule set by their strict director, C. Fenton Darby. As Bugs navigates through rehearsals, he dreams of becoming a drumming sensation and inadvertently finds himself in the middle of a jewel thief plot while trying to meet a movie star. The plot is filled with chaos, humor, and exciting moments that keep readers engaged.

The writing style is lively and comical, reflecting Korman's ability to blend humor with engaging storytelling. The characters, particularly Bugs and Adam, are relatable and dynamic, showcasing themes of confidence and friendship. Reviewers praise the book for its fast-paced and entertaining narrative, filled with laugh-out-loud moments that appeal to both kids and adults. Despite being out of print, the book remains a beloved classic that resonates with readers eager for a hilarious and adventurous read.

"Restart" by Gordon Korman follows the story of Chase Ambrose, a middle school football star and bully who falls off his roof and loses his memory. As Chase navigates his new reality, he discovers the impact of his past actions on those around him and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and redemption. The novel explores themes of identity, second chances, and the possibility of change, all while offering multiple perspectives on the complexities of bullying and personal growth.

Chase's character development is intricately woven into a narrative that delves into the consequences of one's actions and the power of empathy and understanding. Through a blend of humor, realism, and relatable characters, Gordon Korman crafts a compelling story that challenges readers to reconsider preconceived notions about individuals and the potential for transformation.

Spud by John van de Ruit is a coming-of-age novel set in a South African boarding school during the 1990s. The story follows John Milton, nicknamed Spud, as he navigates the ups and downs of teenage life surrounded by eccentric characters and facing typical adolescent challenges. The book is written in a diary format, providing insights into Spud's experiences with humor, teenage insights, and reflections on the unique setting of post-apartheid South Africa.

'Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster' by Jonathan Auxier is a heartwarming tale set in Victorian England, following the journey of Nan Sparrow, a young chimney sweep who forms an unlikely bond with a golem named Charlie. The book beautifully weaves together elements of history, magic, and mysticism as Nan and Charlie navigate the challenges of their harsh reality while also taking a stand against injustice. Through well-defined characters and a captivating plot, Auxier delves into themes of friendship, resilience, and the power of saving others.

The narrative unfolds with Nan's growth from a vulnerable chimney sweep to a strong-willed protagonist who, with the help of Charlie and supportive characters like Toby and Miss Bloom, embarks on a transformative journey. The story seamlessly combines elements of classic children's literature with a touch of magical realism, offering a poignant exploration of themes such as child labor, friendship, and the enduring spirit of hope. Auxier's storytelling skillfully captures the essence of Nan's world, inviting readers on a compelling adventure filled with both heartbreak and moments of joy.

"This Can't Be Happening at Macdonald Hall!" by Gordon Korman follows the misadventures of Bruno and Boots, two prankster best friends at Macdonald Hall boarding school. When their headmaster separates them after one too many pranks, Bruno and Boots must come up with a plan to reunite and prove themselves as legendary jokesters. The book is filled with non-stop hijinks, practical jokes, and humorous antics that keep readers entertained as the duo navigates through challenges and schemes to save their reputations.

Gordon Korman's writing style in this book is simple, quick, and amusing, catering perfectly to middle school readers. The characters of Bruno and Boots, although not deeply developed, are depicted as mischievous and entertaining, engaging readers in their adventures and pranks. The plot, although somewhat predictable, is filled with ridiculous yet believable circumstances that lead to a satisfying conclusion, making it an enjoyable read for those looking for school stories or comedy tales.

"Knights of the Kitchen Table" in the series "Time Warp Trio" by Jon Scieszka is a fun and adventurous story about three friends who are transported back in time to meet King Arthur and his knights. Through a magical book, Joe, Fred, and Sam find themselves battling the Black Knight, a giant, and a dragon in medieval times. The plot is fast-paced, filled with humor, and includes elements of fantasy such as time travel and magical encounters. The writing style is engaging, with short chapters and paragraphs that keep the action moving and make it an enjoyable read for young readers.

'I Want to Go Home!' by Gordon Korman is a hilarious tale of two misfit kids, Rudy and Mike, who meet at summer camp and form a bond. The story revolves around their attempts to escape Camp Algonquin, which is filled with quirky characters and comical situations. is set in a summer camp with no adults except for the camp counselors, who are seen as clones by Rudy, and a distracted camp director. The plot is filled with humor, sarcasm, and escapades that appeal to kids and adults alike. Gordon Korman's writing style is engaging, witty, and filled with 80s nostalgia that resonates with readers.