Don't Call Me Ishmael

"Don't Call Me Ishmael" is a witty and heartwarming young adult novel about Ishmael Leseur, a 14-year-old who has perfected the art of invisibility to avoid his tormentor, Barry Bagsley. His life changes dramatically with the arrival of James Scobie, a new student who claims to have no fear due to a brain operation. Together with a quirky group of friends, Ishmael embarks on a journey of self-discovery, standing up to bullies, participating in debating, and even experiencing a first crush. This book is ideal for middle schoolers (ages 12-15) navigating social dynamics, bullying, and finding their identity. It offers a humorous yet poignant look at courage, friendship, and the power of finding your voice.

By the time ninth grade begins, Ishmael Leseur knows it won't be long before Barry Bagsley, the class bully, says, "Ishmael? What kind of wussy-crap name is that?" Ishmael's perfected the art of making himself virtually invisible. But all that changes when James Scobie joins the class. Unlike Ishmael, James has no sense of fear—he claims it was removed during an operation.Now nothing will stop James and Ishmael from taking on bullies, bugs, and Moby Dick, in the toughest, weirdest, most embarrassingly awful . . . and the best year of their lives.