The Best at It by Pancholy, Maulik

From award-winning actor Maulik Pancholy comes a hilarious and heartfelt middle grade debut about a gay Indian American boy coming into his own. One of Time Out's "LGBTQ+ books for kids to read during Pride Month," this is perfect for fans of Tim Federle's Nate series. A Stonewall Honor Book

Rahul Kapoor is heading into seventh grade in a small town in Indiana. The start of middle school is making him feel increasingly anxious, so his favorite person in the whole world, his grandfather, Bhai, gives him some well-meaning advice: Find one thing you're really good at and become the BEST at it.

Those four little words sear themselves into Rahul's brain. While he's not quite sure what that special thing is, he is convinced that once he finds it, bullies like Brent Mason will stop torturing him at school. And he won't be worried about staring too long at his classmate Justin Emery. With his best friend, Chelsea, by his side, Rahul is ready to crush this challenge.... But what if he discovers he isn't the best at anything?

Funny, charming, and incredibly touching, this is a story about friendship, family, and the courage it takes to live your truth.

Author: Maulik Pancholy
Publisher: Balzer & Bray/Harperteen
Published: 10/08/2019
Pages: 336
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.90lbs
Size: 8.30h x 5.50w x 1.30d
ISBN: 9780062866417
Audience: Ages 9-12

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 4
Point Value: 8
Interest Level: Middle Grade
Quiz #/Name: 505567 / Best at It

Award: Stonewall Book Award - Honor Book

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 07/01/2019 pg. 129
Kirkus Reviews Fall Preview 08/15/2019 pg. 59
Publishers Weekly 08/26/2019
Booklist 09/01/2019 pg. 106
School Library Journal 10/01/2019 pg. 81