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Jacky Ha Ha

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By DeeDee

Jacky Ha Ha 
by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein
Little Brown and Co. 2016. Fiction. 363 p.
Jacky Hart struggles with a shuddering problem. When other kids make fun of her she fights back by being the class clown. Sometimes her antics make her friends laugh, but other times they just land her in the principal's office. When Jacky gets 20 detentions in the first day of 8th grade, a new teacher offers her a way out if she agrees to try out for the school play. Jacky reluctantly agrees, but soon finds that theater life suits her. Soon play practice is the only light in her otherwise dismal life that includes worrying about a mother serving in Afghanistan, a father who seems too interested in a female co-worker, and an ailing grandmother.

James Patterson's books always seem to end of up best seller lists, and it's no wonder. Patterson really understands kid appeal. This one is full of funny moments, but has a serious side, as well. It is highly illustrated with humorous cartoon drawings, and will appeal to kids who like Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Dork Diaries. This book is available from the Libary in print, as an ebook and as an audiobook download. (363 p.)
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