Korman, Gordon. Operation Do-Over. Fiction. Balzer & Bray, 01/2022. 294pp. $17.99. 978-0-06-303274-3. ADDITIONAL. GRADES 5-8.
Mason and his best friend Ty both have crushes on new girl Ava as they begin seventh grade—will this break up their friendship? Told in first person by Mason, this tween novel celebrates nerds, as all three enjoy science. The chapters alternate between when they are twelve, and when they are seventeen years of age, but it is easy to follow. A time travel aspect is introduced, allowing Mason to try and mend his broken friendship with Ty. The writing is sitcom-like, and repetitive at times, but is a light read. Unfortunately, when Mason is bullied by classmates, there are no repercussions. There is no mention of racial identity in the story, cueing the main characters as white. Korman combines his usual humorous tone with some serious elements, making for a memorable story.
Penny Peck, San Jose State University, iSchool