Author
Jack Gantos
3 books here
Dead End in Norvelt
Middle grade · ages 10–14 · 780L · 2011
A Newbery winner that feels lived-in: Gantos builds a real Pennsylvania town, real household conflict, and real historical weight without sentimentality—kids recognize the specificity and ask questions about their own neighborhoods.
Joey Pigza Loses Control
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 650L · 2002
The best middle-grade book about ADHD from the inside—funny, unflinching about medication and shame, and honest that there's no cure, only managed momentum.
Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 730L · 1998
The most honest ADHD book in middle grade—Joey's voice is chaotic, sympathetic, and never performs 'inspiration,' and the adults' confusion mirrors real parental bewilderment without excusing their harm.