8th Grade Superzero

Amazon Book of the Month selection
AARP “Books for Grandparents” selection

8th Grade Superzero video
Directed, edited, and produced by DJ Johnson

After the worst first day back *ever,* Reggie's been nicknamed "Pukey" McKnight at his Brooklyn school. He wants to turn his image around, but he has other things on his mind as well: his father, who's out of a job; his best friends, Joe C. (who's a little too White) and Ruthie (who's a little too intense); his ex-best friend Donovan, who's now a jerk; and of course, the beautiful Mialonie. The elections for school president are coming up, but with his notorious nickname and "nothing" social status, Reggie wouldn't stand a chance, if he even had the courage to run.

Then Reggie gets involved with a local homeless shelter. Inspired by the clients there--especially Charlie, a five-year-old kid who becomes his official "Little Buddy"― he begins to think about making a difference, both in the world and at school. Pukey for President? It can happen . . . if he starts believing.

Reviews
"Rhuday-Perkovich delivers a masterful debut, telling a layered middle-school tale filled with characters who are delightfully flawed and, more importantly, striving to overcome those flaws."
―Publishers Weekly, starred review

"A good-hearted, nuanced story of a young man who dares to be more than his place in a middle-school social hierarchy, a tale rooted in religious faith and social conscience, related with lively good humor."
―Kirkus Reviews