No one likes being the new kid in school, especially Carson, but he has no choice. His dad takes a job in a new town so he can spend more time with him. While he’s glad to hang out with his dad more often, it’s difficult to start over again. He must learn how to fit into his new school and make new friends.

Fortunately, Carson’s teacher senses how much he needs a buddy, so he pairs him up with Patrick. Carson becomes an assistant pet caregiver to the class pet, a rat named Mr. Nibblenose. Patrick shows him the ropes, such as cleaning the cage, how to record entries in the classroom notebook about the pet, how to make the rat come when called on, and how to learn more about rats through a book. Carson appreciates the new job and enjoys working with Patrick. He even likes Mr. Nibblenose, who he gets to bring home. Immediately the rat takes off and gets lost in their house. Carson wonders what the kids will say when he reveals that the class pet has disappeared under his watch. He and his dad get a big surprise that weekend.

Many wacky situations crop up for Carson. For starters, there is a boy, Wes, in his class who comes up with outrageous stories. Carson never knows when Wes is telling the truth or fibbing. Carson and his dad drive out to Atlas Speedway for Wes’s birthday, but the place is deserted with a sign that says it will reopen in June. Another time, Wes tells the whole class that his grandma is a demolition driver. Guess what? She really is!

Life in the new town has its pitfalls. The school has a Bring Your Stuffed Animal to School Day, and many students bring their stuffed animals. But Carson is embarrassed to admit that he has a well-loved stuffed animal, so he keeps it in his backpack. Suddenly, he realizes that his bag has been moved and his furry friend is missing. Now he has to tell the whole class that it’s gone. Fortunately, his classmate Nancy helps him write a sign.

THE NEW KID by Newbery Honor Award-winning author Mavis Jukes is an excellent read for any child who feels like he or she is on the outside of the circle looking in on the group.