Rookie of the Year

Fifth grade is turned upside for two best friends when a spunky new student joins their class in this illustrated middle grade novel--the second book in the funny and engaging Rip and Red series.

Just when they think they've got the hang of things, Rip and Red find that fifth grade continues to challenge them in head-spinning ways. Tiki, a new girl whose Egyptian dad is an animal-rights activist, has just joined their class. She's charismatic, funny--and she's got game! Rip has his world turned upside down as Tiki proves to be tough competition on the Clifton United basketball team and leads a rebellion against the lousy new food service in the school cafeteria. Red, who has autism, is struggling with the upheavals as well. But as these two funky and funny best friends discover, sometimes radical change is the right move, on the court and off.

With an energetic and authentic story from author Phil Bildner and dynamic black-and-white illustrations from Tim Probert, Rookie of the Year is a fresh, fun book about school, sports, and friendship. Featuring a diverse cast of characters and an array of kid-friendly discussable topics, this series is perfect for reluctant readers and in-class or independent reading.

Don't miss any of Rip and Red's adventures for elementary and middle school readers ages 8-12:
● A Whole New Ballgame
● Rookie of the Year
● Tournament of Champions
● Most Valuable Players


About the Author

Phil Bildner is a former New York City public school teacher who lives in Newburgh, New York. The author of many books, including Marvelous Cornelius: Hurricane Katrina and the Spirit of New Orleans and The Soccer Fence: A Story of Friendship, Hope, and Apartheid in South Africa, Bildner is a frequent speaker at conferences and travels to over sixty schools a year.

Tim Probert has illustrated children's books like Pickle by Kim Baker as well as magazines and advertisements. He is also a director at the animation studio Aardman Nathan Love. He lives in New York City.