The Smartest Kid in the Universe

The Smartest Kid in the Universe
Chris Grabenstein

Penguin, 2020 304 pages

Grades 5-8

Science Fiction/Humor

Jake is the typical student in his middle school: lazy and unmotivated. A new principal seems to prefer the students that way, but why? It turns out that a pirate treasure was buried beneath the school many years before and the principal and her uncle, a real estate tycoon, want the school razed in order to secure the treasure and build a gigantic condominium in its place. The district wants to close and sell one middle school and this seems like perfect timing. Meanwhile, Jake stumbles upon jelly beans at his mother's work place and helps himself. The beans turn out to be a scientific creation by a budding inventor to grant instant intelligence. Suddenly, Jake finds himself the smartest kid in the world. The media instant grabs ahold of him and he becomes famous, drawing the attention of the US federal government. Only the inventor and Jake's best friend know the truth behind his amazing transformation. How long will this gift last? Hopefully long enough to win the state-wide quiz competition and save the middle school. Unfortunately, evil forces are at work and will not give up so easily. Jake's very life becomes endangered. Will he be able to save himself and the day?

Grabenstein is one of those authors, like his sometimes writing partner, James Paterson, who knows what kids like to read. This new book is no exception. The title and cover are sure to attract readers and the clever storyline and characteristic humor will keep them going to the end. The fantasy of being the smartest kid in the universe certainly is a lure and if only there were scientifically formulated jelly beans that could make it so! I know that my book club kids will enjoy this story and there is much to discuss within its pages. Seemingly for entertainment purposes only, Grabenstein includes science, math, and history within the plot, making this book a great choice for schools. Ethical questions are raised as well, adding to the books value. At its heart, though, it is simply a fun read that will attract kids of all genders and abilities. The adults are a mixed bag, some who can be trusted and some who cannot, yet the day is saved by pure kid-power. There are unbelievable elements to the story, yet it never goes fully off the rails and readers will suspend disbelief as they journey along with Jake and his pals. The story ends with a surprising cliff-hanger, hinting at a new adventure and, perhaps, a series. Certain to be a hit, recommended for all middle-grade readers.