The Story
George, aka "Suds," is about to start the fifth grade, where he, his best friend Joey, and the rest of his classmates will be the top dogs of the whole school. They are ready to collect on the respect they now deserve and leave their lasting legacy at Gotwals Elementary . . . but that's easier said than done.
Between bullies on the playground and a prankster sister, Suds is being undermined, ignored, and even challenged everywhere he turns.
Suds knows this could finally be his year, if only he works on his walk, perfects his image, and his annoying little sister stays out of his way. He has been preparing to be a top dog his whole elementary school career. Does he now have what it takes?
Author: Jerry Spinelli
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Published: 06/02/2026
Pages: 192
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.79lbs
Size: 7.65h x 5.68w x 0.88d
ISBN: 9798225028237
Audience: Ages 9-12
Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 04/15/2026
School Library Journal 05/01/2026 pg. 73
Booklist 04/28/2026
About the Author
Jerry Spinelli won the Newbery Medal in 1991 for Maniac Magee, one of his more than 25 acclaimed books for young readers. He now lives in West Chester, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Eileen Spinelli, who is also an author of children's books.
Description
George, aka "Suds," is about to start the fifth grade, where he, his best friend Joey, and the rest of his classmates will be the top dogs of the whole school. They are ready to collect on the respect they now deserve and leave their lasting legacy at Gotwals Elementary . . . but that's easier said than done.
Between bullies on the playground and a prankster sister, Suds is being undermined, ignored, and even challenged everywhere he turns.
Suds knows this could finally be his year, if only he works on his walk, perfects his image, and his annoying little sister stays out of his way. He has been preparing to be a top dog his whole elementary school career. Does he now have what it takes?
Author: Jerry Spinelli
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Published: 06/02/2026
Pages: 192
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.79lbs
Size: 7.65h x 5.68w x 0.88d
ISBN: 9798225028237
Audience: Ages 9-12
Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 04/15/2026
School Library Journal 05/01/2026 pg. 73
Booklist 04/28/2026
About the Author
Jerry Spinelli won the Newbery Medal in 1991 for Maniac Magee, one of his more than 25 acclaimed books for young readers. He now lives in West Chester, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Eileen Spinelli, who is also an author of children's books.
