Chester Howard (known as Howard due to a mix-up) has been to loads of schools as his mother's job takes them round the world, but he is horrified at the niceness of everyone at his latest school. They even play skipping and nominate him as blackboard monitor!
The intelligent and cynical Howard strikes up an unlikely friendship with Joe, whose only talent appears to be for writing really badly. Despite Howard's sarcastic and outspoken comments, it is Howard who uncovers Joe's secret talent, who understands just how miserable school is for Joe, and who gives him practical help which is a lot more valuable than his teacher's well-meaning but not very useful encouragement.
This is an excellent book, for 9-12 year-olds; younger readers may enjoy it (my 7-year old did) but I think some of the humour, especially Howard's sarcasm, is more likely to be appreciated by older readers.
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