SCHOLASTIC brings this interesting UK title to the states on June 2nd and it’s one young readers will enjoy.

The main character, Maxwell Beckett, is not the most likeable person to be around. Case in point: Teachers spend a lot of their time correcting his constant misbehavior. He talks behind the back of his only best friend with not very kind comments. Worst of all, Maxwell ruins the big school fundraiser and the whole town is mad at him.

But our young protagonist (antagonist?) does have a good side. He saved his dog, Monster, from getting run over and he regularly visits the old next door neighbor whose memory is not what it used to be. He also helps his bullied sibling. The problem for Maxwell is everyone only sees the bad side of him. He wishes he’d never been born and his wish comes true.

Maxwell still exists but no one knows him. He’s a new face to his parents, older sister, and former best friend Charlie. There’s also no beloved dog as the rescue took place in his erased life. Is this the existence Maxwell really wanted?

The first person narration takes you through all the emotions of being the bad kid. The heart of the story comes from the realities of why Maxwell is the way he is and what he does to make things better. Perfect for all contemporary MG readers who enjoy a little magical realism on the side.

US EDITION PUBLISHING DATE: JUNE 2. 2020   PAGE COUNT: 256

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT

THE DAY I WAS ERASED by Lisa Thomson

1. “It’s a Wonderful Life” when you finally realize it.

2. Reg, the elderly next door neighbor, plays a pivotal role in the plot and goes beyond the stereotypical senior with a failed memory. He’s a man you’d want to be friends with.

3. The satisfying ending put a smile on my face.

4. The scene in the principal’s office with parents, teacher, and student happens often in our educational system. Maxwell made it worthwhile as the outcome is unexpected.

5. A great read-aloud with plenty of opportunities for discussion. Divorce, the meaning of friendship, and seeing the other side of people would easily kick off the conversation

ONE OF FIVE FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT AUTHOR LISA THOMPSON by Lisa Thompson

I wrote my first book when I was nine. When I was little I really wanted to have horse riding lessons but my parents couldn’t afford them so I wrote a (very) short book about a girl who started a rescue home for horses. I could then immerse myself in the horsey world I was so keen to join. I even did my own illustrations! I found the book when I was about thirteen and was so embarrassed about it I ripped it up and threw it away. Big mistake. I’d love to see that book now. (Oh and I did get to go on a horse when I was in my 20’s and I was so scared I asked to get off.)

For more facts and a look at Lisa’s other books, take a trip over to her web site.

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I received an ARC in return for my honest review. Be sure to make a comment below.

And this little teaser before I go: In seven days I’ll have ALWAYS in the MIDDLE’s BIGGEST GIVEAWAY ever. Hurry back for all the details!