Surviving Brick Johnson

"Surviving Brick Johnson" follows Nick, a fifth-grader who, after teasing the large new student, Brick, becomes convinced he'll be "maimed." Driven by fear, Nick enrolls in karate lessons, hoping to defend himself. The story takes an unexpected turn when Brick also joins the class, revealing a different side to his personality. This chapter book gently explores themes of fear, prejudice, and the importance of looking beyond first impressions, offering a heartwarming lesson about empathy and self-confidence. It's ideal for early elementary readers navigating social dynamics and learning to overcome anxieties.

Afraid of getting maimed for making fun of Brick, the husky new kid in his fifth-grade class, Nick decides that even his baseball collection will not protect him so he signs up for karate class, despite his little brother's reassurances that Brick is not a bully.