The New Kid: The Carver Chronicles, Book Five

Third-grader Gavin and his friends aren’t sure what to make of the new boy in their class, Khufu. He sure doesn’t look or act like the other kids . . . and they suspect that he stole Gavin's bike! Meanwhile, Gavin’s great-aunt Myrtle is coming to stay with his family again, and Gavin is sure she’ll be teaming up with his big sister to boss him around the whole time.

Offering spot-on storytelling, relatable characters and situations, and plenty of action, this gently humorous story about a diverse group of elementary-schoolers shows that even someone who seems strange can turn out to be a good friend, if you give them a chance. |

"Combining inviting storytelling with a warm message of friendship and accountability, this entry is a welcome addition to a pretty near perfect series for independent readers."—Kirkus  Praise for The Carver Chronicles     "Many independent readers, particularly boys, will identify with these . . . appealing and likeable characters."—Kirkus   "A much-needed story in which African American boys can see themselves reflected in a positive light, completely free of the usual tropes."—Booklist   "Chapter book readers have few options if they want to read about urban boys of color; here's hoping for more.”—The Horn Book