Shermy and Shake, the Not-So-New Kid

In Kirby Larson's 'Shermy and Shake, the Not-So-New Kid,' second-grader Shermy, who loves order and being a good classroom leader, is assigned to be a school buddy for the new kid. His surprise turns to mixed emotions when the new kid is his summer friend, Shake. While Shermy is meticulous, Shake is boisterous, and soon all the other kids are captivated by Shake, leaving Shermy feeling overlooked. This nuanced chapter book, from a Newbery Honoree, gently navigates themes of friendship, jealousy, and self-confidence with authentic humor and understanding. It's ideal for early elementary readers learning to manage social dynamics and big feelings.

Shermy is excited to learn the new kid in school is none other than his pal Shake, but what if the other kids like Shake better? The two friends’ story, from Newbery Honoree Kirby Larson, continues with heart and humor. Being a second grader is even cooler than Shermy imagined. He loves reading new stories (and filling out charts about them!), helping his teacher get organized, and being a good classroom leader. So when the teacher asks Shermy to be a school buddy for the new kid, Shermy says, “Sure!” Imagine his surprise when the new kid turns out to be Shake—Shermy’s summer friend from out of town. This is amazing news! Or is it? Meticulous Shermy and boisterous Shake couldn’t be more different, and soon the other kids are all looking at Shake like he’s a super rare Magic Monster card—and not looking at Shermy at all. Can Shermy and Shake stay buddies now that school is in session? A nuanced story about friendship that shines with authentic humor and understanding, from Newbery Honoree Kirby Larson and illustrator Shinji Fujioka.