The Wednesday Wars

The Wednesday Wars by Gary Schmidt was a pure delight to read.  In 1967, Holling Hoodhood started 7th grade with Mrs. Baker.  You can follow his adventures through his year including such exciting events as a Shakespeare play, maniacal rats, and the effect of the Vietnam War on his family and classmates.  Holling narrates the story and his voice is very entertaining.  Here is an excerpt to tantalize you.

On Romeo and Juliet, Holling ruminates:
         "Let me tell you, these two wouldn't make it very far in Camillo Junior High.  Never mind that Romeo wears tights-at least according to the pictures-but he just isn't very smart.  And Juliet isn't too strong in that department, either.  I mean, a potion to almost kill you?  She drinks a potion to almost kill you?  Who would drink a potion to almost kill you?  Then Romeo goes ahead and drinks a potion that will kill you because he can't figure out that she's only had a potion that almost kills you?  And then Juliet, who at least is smart enough to figure out that Romeo really is dead, makes sure that she uses a knife this time, which is not almost going to kill you, but really will kill you?"
         "Doesn't this sound like something that two people who can't find their way around the block would get themselves into?"
         "Of course it does."

So after reading that don't you just want to pick it up and see what else Holling Hoodhood has to say?  Of course you do.  This book is a Newbery Honor Book from 2008 so you know it's gotta be good.  There are themes of loyalty, friendship, tolerance, and family relationships with no real violence or language: a safe book for anyone.