The Great Smelling Bee

Parents can reach for this book when their child is navigating the social complexities of school friendships and rivalries, especially when they are looking for a humorous, low-stakes way to explore these dynamics. Part of the Rotten School series, 'The Great Smelling Bee' follows fourth-grader Bernie Bridges as he concocts a zany scheme to win a smelling contest and its prize money. The story is a whirlwind of silly antics, slapstick humor, and clever, if not always honest, problem-solving. This book is a fantastic choice for middle-grade readers, typically ages 8 to 12, who enjoy fast-paced, funny stories. It lightly touches on themes of friendship, jealousy, and perseverance through a comedic lens. It's an excellent pick for reluctant readers, as R. L. Stine's energetic writing and the absurd plot make it a purely entertaining and engaging read that models creative thinking, even if it's for mischievous ends.