Clements, Andrew. Frindle Files, The. Brian Selznick, Illus. Random House, 08/2024. 198pp. Fiction. Trade $17.99. 978-0-399-55763-7. GRADES 4–7. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
Josh is frustrated that his English teacher won’t allow the class to use technology, so students must handwrite assignments. Josh and other students investigate why his teacher is so adamant about not using technology in this follow-up to Frindle (1996). Readers who have read the first book might guess the teacher’s identity; he and most of the other major characters present as white. Selznick’s pencil artwork and the inclusion of emails, notes, and other graphic features will attract reluctant readers. Clements finished most of this book before his death in 2019; the final version was edited by Stephanie Peters and features Clements’ signature quirky characters and honest tween voices.
Penny Peck—San José State University iSchool