Stanford Wong Flunks Big-Time

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the pressure of high expectations or feels like their worth is tied solely to their performance. Whether they are hiding a bad grade or feeling like the 'not-so-smart' one in the family, Stanford's story offers a safe space to explore the shame that often accompanies academic struggle. Stanford Wong is a basketball star who has just flunked sixth grade English. To stay on the team, he must survive summer school and secret tutoring from his rival, the genius Millicent Min. This relatable novel explores the tension between father and son, the fear of losing face with friends, and the courage it takes to admit when you need help. It is a perfect choice for middle schoolers (ages 9-13) navigating the shift from childhood simplicity to the complex social and academic pressures of early adolescence.