The Life and Times of Benny Alvarez

For readers who can't get enough of the funny writings of bestselling authors Jerry Spinelli and Gary D. Schmidt comes another heartfelt story about school, friendship, and family from Peter Johnson, author of The Amazing Adventures of John Smith, Jr. AKA Houdini?a Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2012.

Everyone thinks Benny Alvarez is Mr. Negativity. According to Benny, he's just realistic about seeing the "other side" of things?when it comes to just about everything. But maybe there's another way to deal with the things Benny can't control?like his ailing grandfather, his wild younger brother, and the know-it-all girls at school. In this poignant novel about acceptance, Benny Alvarez will have to decide . . . Is the glass half empty or half full?

The Life and Times of Benny Alvarez is a novel that will make you laugh, cry, and appreciate your family all the more.