Mercy on These Teenage Chimps

On his thirteenth birthday, Ronnie woke up feeling like a chimp—all long armed, big eared, and gangly. He's been muddling through each gawky day since. Now his best friend, Joey, has turned thirteen, too—and after Joey humiliates himself in front of a cute girl, he climbs a tree and refuses to come down. So Ronnie sets out to woo the girl on Joey's behalf. After all, teenage chimps have to stick together.

Acclaimed author Gary Soto tells a fun and touching story about friendship, understanding, and the painful insecurities of being thirteen.

What does it take to get your best friend out of a tree?

• Teenage Awkwardness: Ronnie and Joey are officially thirteen, which means long arms, big ears, and the constant feeling that they’re more chimp than human.
• A Hilarious Mission: When Joey gets stuck in a tree after a mortifying moment, Ronnie takes on the role of Cupid to help him win the girl and get back on solid ground.
• Middle School Life: Navigating embarrassing run-ins with cute girls, facing down bullies, and trying to survive detention, all while just trying to be a good friend.
• Heart and Humor: A laugh-out-loud story from acclaimed author Gary Soto that perfectly captures the gawkiness and loyalty of being thirteen.