Fiona Patchett
Short Classics
A clever anthology that turns familiar tales into fresh, funny puzzles for early chapter book readers.
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Elf Dog and Owl Head
by M.T. Anderson
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 720L · 2023
Anderson's trademark wordplay and absurdist humor makes this a delightful middle-grade romp that doesn't talk down to readers—kids and parents both find something to laugh at.
Romeo and/or Juliet: A Choosable-Path Adventure
by Ryan North
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 720L · 2016
A brilliant deconstruction of R&J that uses the choosable-path format to teach that stories aren't inevitable—you rebuild the play as comedy, tragedy, absurdist adventure, or romance, depending on your choices.
The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science
by Kate McKinnon
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 750L · 2024
Kate McKinnon's voice is hilarious and irreverent, and the setup—etiquette school meets mad-science academy—lands the absurdist premise without feeling forced; smart kids who like weird humor will reread it.