Donutheart

In this humorous and heartwarming middle-grade novel, Franklin Delano Donuthead returns to tackle the trials of sixth grade. Readers will follow Franklin as he grapples with relatable middle school concerns, from avoiding 'whipping ponytails' in the hallways to navigating a crush on Glynnis and his mother's new relationship. Beyond his own anxieties, Franklin develops a deeper empathy as he becomes increasingly concerned about his best friend Sarah Kervick's challenging home life. The story, told in Franklin's distinctive voice, explores themes of friendship, self-awareness, and the courage it takes to help others, even when you're still figuring things out yourself. It's a touching and funny read perfect for children aged 9-12.

Franklin Delano Donuthead, star of Sue Stauffacher's Donuthead, is back and life continues to throw him lots of curveballs: he's now in sixth grade which means it's time for middle school, with all of its related terrors. He has to avoid whipping ponytails in the hallways, he's forced to use school bathrooms, with eighth-graders, his life science teacher makes him blush like a tomato, his beloved Glynnis Powell may be moving ahead of him socially, his mother has a boyfriend, and his unlikely best friend, Sarah Kervick, once again needs more help than he thinks he can manage on his own. But thanks to his tough but kindhearted mother, the tough but kindhearted Gloria Nelots, and a little growing self-awareness, Franklin manages what it takes to pull Sarah out of another rough situation. Sue Stauffacher has crafted another laugh-out-loud middle-grade novel about Franklin and Sarah that once again overflows with Franklin's distinctive voice, a touching plot, wholly original characters, and a little Mercurochrome for good measure. From the Hardcover edition.