Ginger Kid: Mostly True Tales from a Former Nerd

by Steve Hofstetter Narrated by Steve Hofstetter

Overview

In Ginger Kid, popular comedian Steve Hofstetter grapples with life after seventh grade . . . when his world fell apart. Formatted as a series of personal essays, Steve walks his readers through awkward early dating, family turbulence, and the revenge of the bullied nerds. This YA nonfiction is sure to be the beloved next volume for the first generation of Wimpy Kid fans who are all grown up and ready for a new misfit hero.

Editorial Reviews

Booklist

"Funny and heartfelt"

The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"While [Hofstetter] is living a life of fame, travel, and financial success that many kids no doubt dream of, his origin story is a humble one; indeed, it is the sheer ordinariness of his experiences that will likely prove to be their most inspiring aspect."

From the Publisher

"Good advice offered with a light but realistic touch make this a strong collection addition that will inspire teen readers to reach for challenges and friends beyond school walls. His journey holds much wisdom for adults, too, especially for those working with young people."—VOYA Magazine

"For those who are ready to graduate from 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' who want to see a self-proclaimed nerd progress in life, this is a welcome next choice. Told in tales of foibles and triumphs, this book is a positive example of perseverance."—School Library Journal

"Funny and heartfelt"—Booklist

"While [Hofstetter] is living a life of fame, travel, and financial success that many kids no doubt dream of, his origin story is a humble one; indeed, it is the sheer ordinariness of his experiences that will likely prove to be their most inspiring aspect."—The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

VOYA Magazine

"Good advice offered with a light but realistic touch make this a strong collection addition that will inspire teen readers to reach for challenges and friends beyond school walls. His journey holds much wisdom for adults, too, especially for those working with young people."

Booklist

"Funny and heartfelt"

School Library Journal

02/01/2018
Gr 7 Up—YouTube star Hofstetter takes readers back into a time that is the most difficult: high school. In this memoir, he details his journey from public school to getting into an elite private school and trying to find his way during his formative teenage years. From having his first girlfriend and learning the ins and outs of dating, to finding new friends in his new school, Hofstetter never misses a beat, mixing humor with more serious issues, such as bullying and standing up for oneself. For those who are ready to graduate from "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" who want to see a self-proclaimed nerd progress in life, this is a welcome next choice. VERDICT Told in tales of foibles and triumphs, this book is a positive example of perseverance for large high school and public library collections.—Mitchell Berman, Zion-Benton Public Library, IL

Kirkus Reviews

2018-01-22
Comedian and YouTube personality Hofstetter pens a memoir about attending a prominent Manhattan high school, where he faces bullying, overcomes shyness, finds his true friends, learns about relationships and his naiveté, and discovers passions for writing and comedy.The narrative is told in first-person and in three parts: opener, feature, and headliner—the same outlined acts that make up a typical American comedy show. Hofstetter begins by depicting an easy, relaxed elementary and middle school experience in Queens, New York. As the youngest of four siblings, he tells readers, "I never realized my family didn't have money"—a detail that is contingent on where an individual lives, as Hofstetter's family of six in a three-bedroom house might seem quite luxurious to some. Dated references will be lost on young readers, but what won't be lost are the references to an often stoned teacher, minimal mentions of sex (both on the phone and in the flesh) between inexperienced teens, and weapons at school—a kid pulls out a knife on young Hofstetter twice. The redheaded, white Jewish teen begins high school attempting to keep a low profile and remain an outcast; his journey includes much work with the United Synagogue Youth and navigation of sexual politics, and by the end, readers will recognize character growth.Despite the book's occasional long-windedness and repetitiveness, some teen readers may still find themselves rooting for young Steve. (Memoir. 13-17)

Product Details

BN ID:	2940169586183
Publisher:	Brilliance Audio
Publication date:	03/20/2018
Edition description:	Unabridged
Age Range:	13 - 17 Years

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