Middle School, The Worst Years of my Life - James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts

Rafe Khatchadorian has enough problems at home without throwing his first year of middle school into the mix. Luckily, he's got an ace plan for the best year ever, if he can pull it off. With his best friend Leonardo the Silent awarding him points, Rafe tries to break every rule in his school's oppressive Code of Conduct. Chewing gum in class - 5,000 points! Running in the hallway - 10,000 points! Pulling the fire alarm - 50,000 points! But when Rafe's game starts to catch up with him, he'll have to decide if winning is all that matters, or if he's finally ready to face the rules, bullies, and truths he's been avoiding.


I never realised, before receiving this book to review, that James Patterson wrote children's/young adult books. When I think about James Patterson, I think the Alex Cross series, however a little research has found that Patterson is actually a very popular author of books for both adults and children and is very keen to get children reading.


This book is a stand alone book and is about Rafe, a young boy about to start middle school, sixth grade, and is not looking forward to it. On his first morning, in assembly, he is introduced to 'The Hills Village Middle School Code of Conduct' and he begins his plan of how to break as many of the rules he can break in the year. 


The book is full of illustrations which tell the story as well as the words. They are full of details and brilliantly drawn. 


The story will appeal to boys, although it is american and follows the american school system, it is still a story they will enjoy. Full of mischief and fun, however there is a more serious side, family problems and growing up.


I would recommend it to boys of about 9+.


Thank you to Michael at The School Run for sending me the book to review.