Harrell, Rob. Popcorn. Penguin Random House/Dial, 09/2024. 269pp. Fiction. Trade $18.99. 978-0-5936-9792-4. GRADES 4–7. OUTSTANDING.
The pressure is on—and steadily growing—for seventh grader Andrew Yaeger, who struggles to manage his anxiety and OCD throughout a school day in which everything that can possibly go wrong does. Author Rob Harrell, who has personal experience with anxiety and OCD, puts the reader directly in Andrew’s shoes as we follow along on this comically disastrous day, listening in as he thoughtfully processes his reactions to the situations he encounters while laughing along with the humorous sketches he draws in his so-called “anxiety files.” Although some of Andrew’s problems are quite serious, Harrell manages to maintain a light-hearted tone overall, one that allows the reader to be highly entertained by the action-packed events while rooting for this likeable character every step of the way. Even the most reluctant reader would be hard-pressed not to engage with this charming, relatable story. Andrew presents as white; his closest friend, Jonesy, is Black. Back matter includes a note from the author and recommended resources on anxiety, OCD, and Alzheimer’s.
Jennifer Taylor—Palo Alto City Library