Author(s): Kara LaReau; Matt Myers (Illustrator)

Middle Years Fiction

When Ralphie Ratso stands up to some kids who bullied his friend, they vow revenge. But will ratting them out make it worse?

Sid and Kurt have been picking on Ralphie's friend Tiny, and when Ralphie tells them to stop, the two boys get sent to the principal's office. Now Sid and Kurt are out to get Ralphie! They upend Ralphie's lunch tray, whip the ball at his head on the playground, and pelt him with peashooters when the teachers aren't looking--ping! Ralphie's brother, Louie, says he should tell a grown-up, but Ralphie--not wanting to be a Ratty Tattletale--decides to "fight fire with fire," only creating new problems for himself. It's time to tell Big Lou, his dad, who has a few wise ideas for putting things right. Full of the charm and fun that Ratsos fans love, this fifth adventure highlights the difference between standing up for yourself and taking vengeance--and shows why confiding in a trusted grown-up when you have a big problem can be the coolest thing to do.