One-Third Nerd

By: Gennifer Choldenko

Narrated by: Maxwell Glick

A funny, fast-paced, and heartfelt story from the Newbery Honor-winning author of the Al Capone series.

Fifth grade is not for amateurs, according to Liam. Luckily, he knows that being more than one-third nerd is not cool. Liam lives in the Bay area near San Francisco with his mom and two younger sisters. Dakota is fascinated by science and has a big personality but struggles to make friends; Izzy, a child with Down syndrome, makes friends easily and notices things that go past everyone else. Dad lives across town, but he's over a lot. And then there's Cupcake, their lovable German shepherd, who guards their basement apartment.

Recently, Cupcake has a problem--she's peeing in the house. The kids need to make enough money to take her to the vet before their landlord upstairs finds out. And Mom and Dad have said if Cupcake doesn't stop, they will find her a new home. But the kids will never let Cupcake go. Can they save her?

Critic reviews

"Reminiscent of Judy Blume's work, this endearing story will make many children laugh and allow some to see a part of themselves."—Kirkus Reviews, Starred

"It is Liam’s quiet thoughtfulness and relationship with his sisters, especially his interest in their lives—Izzy’s Down syndrome social group “the Forty-Sevens” and Dakota’s impulsive experiments—that let him shine just as bright as his two extroverted sisters."—Publishers Weekly, Starred

Praise for the Al Capone books:

"Choldenko's pacing is exquisite. . . . [A] great read." --Kirkus Reviews, Starred

"Rich characterization, tender drama, and sleuthworthy clues, this poignant mystery makes for a thoroughly satisfying conclusion to the landmark historical trilogy." --Booklist, Starred

"Choldenko continues to infuse the Alcatraz community with warmth and originality." --Publishers Weekly, Starred

"Choldenko's storytelling is compelling, portraying human decency as a force more powerful than heroism." --Newsday