Adventure and Humor Await as Gordon Korman Visits GMSD Students

Germantown Municipal School District is excited to announce its first-ever visit from renowned middle grades' author Gordon Korman. Known for his humorous and adventurous storytelling, Korman has authored over 100 beloved books, including favorites such as Schooled, Swindle, and Restart.

During his visit on May 6 and 7, Korman will meet with students from Forest Hill Elementary, Riverdale Elementary, Houston Middle School, Farmington Elementary, and Dogwood Elementary. He'll share his experiences as a young author, discuss his creative writing process, and highlight the techniques behind his memorable characters and engaging plots.

"We're thrilled to bring Gordon Korman to our schools," said Megan Jackson, who organized the event. "His stories inspire creativity, empathy, and critical thinking. It's a fantastic opportunity for our students to meet an author whose books they truly love."

Students will also have the chance to meet Korman and have their books signed during dedicated signing sessions after each presentation. Families interested in purchasing books can find recommendations by GMSD librarians, with grade-appropriate suggestions available.Mr. Korman will sign books after each presentation

Below is a list of some of Mr. Korman's books as recommended by our GMSD librarians. Each title includes a grade level recommendation with a short plot synopsis. Each title is linked to an Amazon order page for the particular book. Students may bring their book(s) on the day of the presentation for Mr. Korman to sign.

**Grade level suggestions are based on the Amazon recommendations.

Framed (Grades 3-8)
In this fast-paced sequel to Swindle, Griffin and his friends are trying to clear their names after being falsely accused of a crime. They go on a mission to find the real thief, leading them to even bigger challenges and unexpected discoveries. It’s an exciting blend of mystery, teamwork, and suspense.

Schooled (Grades 3-8)
Capricorn “Cap” Anderson has lived his entire life on a commune, but after his grandmother, the only family he’s ever known, is hospitalized, he’s sent to a public school. Cap struggles to adapt to a world full of cliques, bullies, and technology, but his kindness and unique perspective help him make unexpected friends. This story is a fun exploration of what happens when you’re forced to step out of your comfort zone.

Linked (Grades 3-8)
In this powerful story, a middle school is rocked by an act of hate when a swastika is painted on a student’s locker. As the students and teachers try to figure out what happened, a group of students from different backgrounds and experiences begins to form bonds. Linked explores important themes of racism, prejudice, and the power of friendship in the face of adversity.

Unplugged (Grades 3-8)
Jake, a video game addict, is sent to a special school for kids who struggle with technology and social skills. At the camp, Jake must learn to connect with people without the help of electronics but soon discovers that his real struggles lie beyond the screen. This story combines humor with a look at how technology affects relationships and personal growth.

Slacker (Grades 3-8)
Cameron Boxer is the king of doing the least work possible. When his video game club turns into an unexpected source of school-wide influence, Cameron is forced to decide whether he’ll continue his laid-back, unmotivated ways or step up and take responsibility. This story is a humorous yet insightful look at the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and challenging yourself.

Restart (Grades 3-8)
Chase Ambrose wakes up from a concussion with no memory of who he was before. As he tries to rebuild his life, he uncovers his past as a bully and has the chance to change for the better. This heartwarming story explores themes of second chances, forgiveness, and redemption.

Swindle (Grades 4-8)
Griffin Bing finds a rare baseball card worth thousands of dollars, but when it’s stolen by a shady collector, he teams up with his friends to get it back. With clever plans and plenty of action, they work together to pull off a daring heist. This adventure-filled mystery is full of humor and friendship.

Jake, Reinvented (Grades 4-8)
Jake, a high school student, has a reputation as the “perfect” guy, but when a new student moves to town, he starts questioning the life he’s built. Jake’s journey to redefine who he is brings him face-to-face with tough choices about friendship and identity. This story is a mix of self-discovery and high school drama.

No More Dead Dogs (Grades 5-8)
When eighth-grader Wallace Wallace refuses to say he liked the book Old Shep, My Pal, his school forces him to attend detention and write a report on it. As Wallace works on the report, he ends up creating an unconventional play that flips the whole story, leading to hilarious and unexpected results. This is a funny, light-hearted book about standing up for your beliefs.

Ungifted (Grades 5-8)
Donovan Curtis accidentally causes a huge disaster at school and, instead of being punished, is mistakenly sent to a special school for gifted kids. As Donovan tries to fit in, he discovers that being “gifted” isn’t just about grades and intelligence—it’s about finding your unique talents and strengths. This humorous story highlights the value of individuality.

Supergifted (Grades 3-8)
In this sequel to Ungifted, Donovan Curtis is back at his school for gifted students, but this time he’s dealing with new challenges—like navigating a robotics competition and figuring out his future. As he faces tougher obstacles, Donovan learns about the importance of teamwork, self-confidence, and using his talents for good. It’s another hilarious yet heartwarming story about fitting in and growing up.

Masterminds Series (Grades 5-8)
A group of kids raised in a seemingly perfect town discover that their lives have been manipulated by powerful forces. As they unravel shocking secrets about their origins, they must use their intelligence and teamwork to outwit those who have controlled them. The series is packed with mystery, twists, and an exploration of morality and free will.