The Heartbreak Messenger by Alexander Vance (2013)

A funny story about the dangers of messing around with people’s hearts.

Recommended grade level: 4-7

Pages: 304 (for ISBN 9781250044167)

Genre(s) and keywords: humor, realistic fiction

Tone/Style: humorous, self-deprecating

Pace: moderate to fast

Topics: dating, businesses

Themes: heartbreak, bystanders

Summary: Quentin never asked to be the Heartbreak Messenger, it just kind of happened. The valuable communication service he offers is simple: he delivers break-up messages. For a small fee, he will deliver that message to your soon-to-be ex-girlfriend. If you order the deluxe package, he’ll even throw in some flowers and a box of chocolates. You know, to soften the blow…

Ungifted by Gordon Korman (2012)

A funny book with a lovably incompetent protagonist.

Recommended grade level: 4-8

Pages: 280 (for ISBN 9780061742668)

Genre(s) and keywords: humor

Tone/Style: self-deprecating

Pace: moderate

Topics: robotics, contests, cheating, intelligence, social abilities

Themes: feeling inadequate, finding your talents, self-discovery

Summary: The word “gifted” has never been applied to Donovan Curtis. It’s usually more like “don’t try this at home.” So when the troublemaker pulls a major prank at his middle school, he thinks he’s finally gone too far. But thanks to a mix-up, instead of getting in trouble, Donovan is sent to the Academy for Scholastic Distinction, a special program for gifted and talented students.

Geek Girl by Holly Smale (2013)

This light, funny book speaks to the geek in all of us.

Recommended grade level: 6-10

Pages: 378 (for ISBN 9780007489442)

Genre(s) and keywords: humor, chick lit, British import, international, Europe (England)

Tone/Style: self-deprecating, geeky

Pace: moderate

Topics: modeling, geeks, crushes, fashion and style

Themes: reinventing oneself, friendship, leaving your comfort zone

Summary: Geek + runway = a runaway UK hit! Geek Girl is the first book in a hilarious, internationally bestselling series that’s perfect for fans of Louise Rennison and The Princess Diaries.

The Worst Class Trip Ever by Dave Barry (2015)

This comedy adventure will have kids cracking up. I booktalked this to 6th and 7th graders, to great success. (Make sure you mention the giant butt kite.)

Recommended grade level: 4-7

Pages: 224 (for ISBN 9781484708491)

Genre(s) and keywords: humor, diverse, adventure, reluctant readers, Latinx protagonist

Tone/Style: humorous, self-deprecating

Pace: moderate to fast

Topics: field trips, Washington, D.C., terrorism, kidnapping, covert activities

Themes: loyalty to friends

Summary: In this hilarious novel, written in the voice of eighth-grader Wyatt Palmer, Dave Barry takes us on a class trip to Washington, DC.