Double Dog Dare

Double Dog Dare is a humorous and insightful middle-grade novel that follows fourth-graders Kansas Bloom and Francine Halata. Initially rivals, they find themselves locked in an escalating dare war. As the dares become more outlandish, they begin to see past their differences, discovering shared experiences, particularly concerning their families' reconfigurations due to divorce. Told from dual perspectives, this book offers a lighthearted yet honest exploration of friendship, rivalry, and adjusting to significant family changes, making it relatable for children navigating similar situations.

What would you do to win a dare war? In a humorous and insightful novel about dares, divorce and friendship, Lisa Graff tells the story of fourth-graders Kansas Bloom and Francine Halata, who start out as archenemies, until--in a battle of wits and willpower--they discover that they have a lot more in common than either would have guessed. This dual-perspective novel will appeal to girls and boys alike--and to anyone who has ever wanted anything so badly that they'd lick a lizard to get it. Praise for DOUBLE DOG DARE “[A] perceptive and funny book….the way [Graff] handles her characters is spot-on.” --Booklist “Readers will be hooked by the first chapter….All in all, an enjoyable, lighthearted read about a difficult topic.” --School Library Journal “Graff's…story is lighthearted and humorous, but honestly addresses the emotions associated with divorce. Her characters' voices, interactions, and hangups are relatable, as they battle each other and adjust to their families' reconfigurations.” --Publishers Weekly