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Middle School's a Drag, You Better Werk
In this heartfelt and hilarious new novel from Greg Howard, an enterprising boy starts his own junior talent agency and signs a thirteen-year-old aspiring drag queen as his first client.
Twelve-year-old Mikey Pruitt--president, founder, and CEO of Anything, Inc.--has always been an entrepreneur at heart. Inspired by his grandfather Pap Pruitt, who successfully ran all sorts of businesses from a car wash to a roadside peanut stand, Mikey is still looking for his million-dollar idea. Unfortunately, most of his ideas so far have failed. A baby tornado ran off with his general store, and the kids in his neighborhood never did come back for their second croquet lesson. But Mikey is determined to keep at it.
It isn't until kid drag queen Coco Caliente, Mistress of Madness and Mayhem (aka eighth grader Julian Vasquez) walks into his office (aka his family's storage/laundry room) looking for an agent that Mikey thinks he's finally found his million-dollar idea, and the Anything Talent and Pizzazz Agency is born!
Soon, Mikey has a whole roster of kid clients looking to hit it big or at least win the middle school talent show's hundred-dollar prize. As newly out Mikey prepares Julian for the gig of a lifetime, he realizes there's no rulebook for being gay--and if Julian can be openly gay at school, maybe Mikey can, too, and tell his crush, dreamy Colton Sanford, how he feels.
Full of laughs, sass, and hijinks, this hilarious, heartfelt story shows that with a little effort and a lot of love, anything is possible.
Twelve-year-old Mikey Pruitt--president, founder, and CEO of Anything, Inc.--has always been an entrepreneur at heart. Inspired by his grandfather Pap Pruitt, who successfully ran all sorts of businesses from a car wash to a roadside peanut stand, Mikey is still looking for his million-dollar idea. Unfortunately, most of his ideas so far have failed. A baby tornado ran off with his general store, and the kids in his neighborhood never did come back for their second croquet lesson. But Mikey is determined to keep at it.
It isn't until kid drag queen Coco Caliente, Mistress of Madness and Mayhem (aka eighth grader Julian Vasquez) walks into his office (aka his family's storage/laundry room) looking for an agent that Mikey thinks he's finally found his million-dollar idea, and the Anything Talent and Pizzazz Agency is born!
Soon, Mikey has a whole roster of kid clients looking to hit it big or at least win the middle school talent show's hundred-dollar prize. As newly out Mikey prepares Julian for the gig of a lifetime, he realizes there's no rulebook for being gay--and if Julian can be openly gay at school, maybe Mikey can, too, and tell his crush, dreamy Colton Sanford, how he feels.
Full of laughs, sass, and hijinks, this hilarious, heartfelt story shows that with a little effort and a lot of love, anything is possible.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published February 11, 2020
About the author
Greg Howard
10 books285 followersHappy to respond to messages at:
greg@greghowardauthor.com
EDGAR-nominated author, Greg Howard, was born and raised in the South Carolina Lowcountry where his love of stories blossomed at a young age. Originally set on becoming a songwriter, Greg followed that dream to Nashville, Tennessee, where he spent years producing the music of others before eventually returning to his childhood passion for writing stories.
Greg’s critically acclaimed debut middle-grade novel, The Whispers, was nominated for an Edgar Award and was named a Best Book of 2019 by Advocate Magazine. His second middle-grade novel, Middle School’s a Drag, You Better Werk! is an Amazon Teacher’s Pick. The Visitors, his third middle-grade offering, was a 2022 New York Public Library Best Book. Also, the author of the young adult novel Social Intercourse, Greg’s next middle-grade book, The Travelers, will be available on August 25, 2026.
Greg writes for and about LGBTQ youth, creating the kind of books he wishes he’d had access to as a young reader growing up gay in the American South. When he’s not writing books, Greg enjoys traveling, reading, hiking, and spending time with friends. He lives in Nashville with his two fur babies—Sadie and Riley.
greg@greghowardauthor.com
EDGAR-nominated author, Greg Howard, was born and raised in the South Carolina Lowcountry where his love of stories blossomed at a young age. Originally set on becoming a songwriter, Greg followed that dream to Nashville, Tennessee, where he spent years producing the music of others before eventually returning to his childhood passion for writing stories.
Greg’s critically acclaimed debut middle-grade novel, The Whispers, was nominated for an Edgar Award and was named a Best Book of 2019 by Advocate Magazine. His second middle-grade novel, Middle School’s a Drag, You Better Werk! is an Amazon Teacher’s Pick. The Visitors, his third middle-grade offering, was a 2022 New York Public Library Best Book. Also, the author of the young adult novel Social Intercourse, Greg’s next middle-grade book, The Travelers, will be available on August 25, 2026.
Greg writes for and about LGBTQ youth, creating the kind of books he wishes he’d had access to as a young reader growing up gay in the American South. When he’s not writing books, Greg enjoys traveling, reading, hiking, and spending time with friends. He lives in Nashville with his two fur babies—Sadie and Riley.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
June 26, 2021
Laugh-out-loud funny and irresistably charming!
Want to Read
July 28, 2019Did I hear queer middle grade about drag queens?? SIGN ME UP
February 8, 2020
NOTE: I follow Goodreads' rating scale, and I didn't enjoy much about this so, it's a 1 for didn't like it. That does not mean I loathe it or want to prevent others from reading it.
Coming off the heels of watching all of RuPaul's Drag Race in a couple of months, Middle School's a Drag, You Better Werk! called to me. Maybe I shouldn't have answered.
This is one of those cases where I feel like the wrong character is the MC. Based on the title, I thought this would be about drag primarily, but it's not. In fact, the book centers on a precocious (if you're nice—which I'm not) or obnoxious (if you're unforgiving) kid who constantly dreams up new business ideas. Mikey reminds me most of a very young Mr. Collins with his lack of self-awareness, self-congratulation, repetitive phrases, and general demeanor.
Anyway, Julian, an eighth grader approaches Mikey and his company Anything Inc seeking a talent agent. Mikey, not knowing anything about drag or being an agent, accepts. Really, I should have DNFed, because the premise frustrated me right from the start. While I could believe that Mikey would think his ideas had merit, I could not believe that anyone else would take him seriously. I'm team bratty sister.
Like, to be perfectly honest, I was hoping that Mikey's venture would be an epic failure. I was zero percent rooting for him. I wanted him to be smacked down by the fact that real life is hard and learn valuable lessons and have a character arc where he stopped being so Collins-y. No dice. Mikey really doesn't seem to learn anything at all, except maybe that he's even better at everything than he already thought, which has me gagging in the literal, non-drag way.
I wish this book had been more what I expected from the title, like if it had been about Julian. In general too, I did feel like the whole thing lacked, ironically, pizzazz. The writing's repetitive, and it all felt very tell-y.
That said, I'll acknowledge that I am a grumpy old miser, so I'm far from the target audience for this. Maybe it will be something special for young gay kids, and I do hope so. For me, though, it wasn't great.
Coming off the heels of watching all of RuPaul's Drag Race in a couple of months, Middle School's a Drag, You Better Werk! called to me. Maybe I shouldn't have answered.
This is one of those cases where I feel like the wrong character is the MC. Based on the title, I thought this would be about drag primarily, but it's not. In fact, the book centers on a precocious (if you're nice—which I'm not) or obnoxious (if you're unforgiving) kid who constantly dreams up new business ideas. Mikey reminds me most of a very young Mr. Collins with his lack of self-awareness, self-congratulation, repetitive phrases, and general demeanor.
Anyway, Julian, an eighth grader approaches Mikey and his company Anything Inc seeking a talent agent. Mikey, not knowing anything about drag or being an agent, accepts. Really, I should have DNFed, because the premise frustrated me right from the start. While I could believe that Mikey would think his ideas had merit, I could not believe that anyone else would take him seriously. I'm team bratty sister.
Like, to be perfectly honest, I was hoping that Mikey's venture would be an epic failure. I was zero percent rooting for him. I wanted him to be smacked down by the fact that real life is hard and learn valuable lessons and have a character arc where he stopped being so Collins-y. No dice. Mikey really doesn't seem to learn anything at all, except maybe that he's even better at everything than he already thought, which has me gagging in the literal, non-drag way.
I wish this book had been more what I expected from the title, like if it had been about Julian. In general too, I did feel like the whole thing lacked, ironically, pizzazz. The writing's repetitive, and it all felt very tell-y.
That said, I'll acknowledge that I am a grumpy old miser, so I'm far from the target audience for this. Maybe it will be something special for young gay kids, and I do hope so. For me, though, it wasn't great.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2022
Mikey is the CEO of his all-inclusive company. He does it all. The next business plan endeavor: Talent Agent for his Middle School.
Mikey is thrown on a whirl-wind adventure of making dreams a reality: amidst family drama, Drag Queens and Divas, and a 3-legged Blind Pitbull.
That's just the tip of the iceberg. Don't even get started on his evil scary little sister.
Culminating into the end-of-the-school year Talent Show, Mikey faces his own sexuality identity, helps his friends along, realizes that bullies may not be so bad, and the power of family/community.
Greg Howard (author of The Whispers and Social Intercourse) gives us a story crammed with diversity, family dynamics, and Middle School drama.
It does end like you think, but Greg does a great job of creating all of the feels.
One of my downside opinions is that Mikey is kind of an unlikeable protagonist given how bossy he is without being necessarily called out, but he does have an arc. You will have the feels.
The additional great things that are featured at the book of the book are the supporting organizations True Colors and Dragutante.
Mikey is thrown on a whirl-wind adventure of making dreams a reality: amidst family drama, Drag Queens and Divas, and a 3-legged Blind Pitbull.
That's just the tip of the iceberg. Don't even get started on his evil scary little sister.
Culminating into the end-of-the-school year Talent Show, Mikey faces his own sexuality identity, helps his friends along, realizes that bullies may not be so bad, and the power of family/community.
Greg Howard (author of The Whispers and Social Intercourse) gives us a story crammed with diversity, family dynamics, and Middle School drama.
It does end like you think, but Greg does a great job of creating all of the feels.
One of my downside opinions is that Mikey is kind of an unlikeable protagonist given how bossy he is without being necessarily called out, but he does have an arc. You will have the feels.
The additional great things that are featured at the book of the book are the supporting organizations True Colors and Dragutante.
July 3, 2023
Has Mikey finally found his million-dollar idea?
At just twelve years old, Mikey Pruitt has founded his own company, Anything Inc. Mikey is still in search of his million-dollar idea. Unfortunately, most of Mikey's ideas have failed, but he won't give up that easy! Then he meets Coco Caliente, Mistress of Madness and Mayhem, (aka kid drag queen, eighth grader Julian Vasquez) who is in search of an agent. It hits Mikey that THIS is his million-dollar idea, Anything Talent and Pizzazz Agency. Shortly after announcing his new business endeavor, he has a whole list of clients to represent. Can Mikey help one of his clients win the school talent show with it's hundred-dollar prize? After recently coming out, will Mikey decide to tell his crush how he feels?
I loved every second of this story. It was such an entertaining story that had me laughing and looking forward to reading more. It's filled with acceptance for oneself and others, determination, self-expression, and bravery. The narrator, Michael Crouch, did an excellent job bringing this story to life. I can't recommend this book enough!
At just twelve years old, Mikey Pruitt has founded his own company, Anything Inc. Mikey is still in search of his million-dollar idea. Unfortunately, most of Mikey's ideas have failed, but he won't give up that easy! Then he meets Coco Caliente, Mistress of Madness and Mayhem, (aka kid drag queen, eighth grader Julian Vasquez) who is in search of an agent. It hits Mikey that THIS is his million-dollar idea, Anything Talent and Pizzazz Agency. Shortly after announcing his new business endeavor, he has a whole list of clients to represent. Can Mikey help one of his clients win the school talent show with it's hundred-dollar prize? After recently coming out, will Mikey decide to tell his crush how he feels?
I loved every second of this story. It was such an entertaining story that had me laughing and looking forward to reading more. It's filled with acceptance for oneself and others, determination, self-expression, and bravery. The narrator, Michael Crouch, did an excellent job bringing this story to life. I can't recommend this book enough!
July 31, 2020
This YA book has a gay character which is good but it’s another middle school book that seems to be written not for literally quality but more like a book written by committee with specific guidelines. The lexile level is low, can’t have too many words or too hard. The book is written mainly in dialog but the characters don’t say anything interesting or meaningful. It name drops TV shows and products, iPhone, flip phone, etc. The main character who is gay is big on business, and wants to put on a show for the school. The pace is frenetic but doesn’t go anywhere or mean anything. One gets the feeling the business math was put in for “real life” math, as if they require it for approval from education companies. It also drops in figurative language which often tested in ELA tests. Meaning which isn’t tested has very little to do with this novel. This isn’t a heartfelt book in which the author has a vision and a reason for writing it. It’s more like a corporate novel created by committee to meet standards. No fun to read, no meaning and totally empty.
January 13, 2020
This book comes out in February and I can’t wait to add it to our library. Michael Pruitt, middle school student is the CEO of his own talent agency representing a stand up comedian, a blind 3 legged dog and its trainer, and a drag queen named Coco Caliente. This book is packed with laughs and the struggles of navigating peer pressure and parent relations. And once again Greg Howard had me in tears in the final chapters.
May 13, 2020
OK I mean I think it's cool to have a MG book about drag queens, and I think the way that the narrator learns about drag via RuPaul's drag race and frequent google searches is something that will be really relatable for a selection of tween readers. As the book itself knows, "drag kids" are taking off online and there are definitely some younger readers who will be interested in it for this reason.
Sadly the book's narrator isn't a drag kid, he's a semi-closeted gay boy whose comes from a generation of entrepreneurs, so he's always trying to start businesses and has most recently settled on starting a talent agency, so he books a drag queen 8th grader from his school.
It's a cute premise...for me as an adult reader, Mikey the narrator is supes annoying; his favorite modifier is "crazy-awesome" and that is used on every page. (Sometimes even "super-crazy-awesome.")
Still, it's a cute queer romance and I think there are aspects of this that will appeal to a lot of young readers. My rating is for me, as an adult this was pretty annoying.
Sadly the book's narrator isn't a drag kid, he's a semi-closeted gay boy whose comes from a generation of entrepreneurs, so he's always trying to start businesses and has most recently settled on starting a talent agency, so he books a drag queen 8th grader from his school.
It's a cute premise...for me as an adult reader, Mikey the narrator is supes annoying; his favorite modifier is "crazy-awesome" and that is used on every page. (Sometimes even "super-crazy-awesome.")
Still, it's a cute queer romance and I think there are aspects of this that will appeal to a lot of young readers. My rating is for me, as an adult this was pretty annoying.
July 2, 2020
This was fun, and even made me tear up (with happiness) at the end.
Michael Pruitt is always looking for his next business venture. So when a "wrong kind of popular" kid from school asks him to help launch his drag kid career, he thinks he's stumbled on a gazillion dollar idea. Coco Caliente, Mistress of Mayhem and Madness is the first client for Michael's talent agency, but soon follow a comedian, a girl and her blind dog who do tricks, an impersonator, and a girl who interprets dreams.
Michael navigates school, bullies, his "evil" sister, finding gigs for his clients, a sick grandfather, a first crush...as well as slowly coming out and figuring out how to be proud. There were definitely moments I cringed, but I think this was a result of my investment in the characters. Michael is a funny, relatable, not always great main character, and side characters are given varying levels of development. There's a hint of redemption for a bully, but more importantly, a nice demonstration that there is no one way to be gay.
There were a couple of descriptive choices the writer made that bugged me, but I don't think kids will be as bothered by the frequent description of people moving hair out of their faces.
Michael Pruitt is always looking for his next business venture. So when a "wrong kind of popular" kid from school asks him to help launch his drag kid career, he thinks he's stumbled on a gazillion dollar idea. Coco Caliente, Mistress of Mayhem and Madness is the first client for Michael's talent agency, but soon follow a comedian, a girl and her blind dog who do tricks, an impersonator, and a girl who interprets dreams.
Michael navigates school, bullies, his "evil" sister, finding gigs for his clients, a sick grandfather, a first crush...as well as slowly coming out and figuring out how to be proud. There were definitely moments I cringed, but I think this was a result of my investment in the characters. Michael is a funny, relatable, not always great main character, and side characters are given varying levels of development. There's a hint of redemption for a bully, but more importantly, a nice demonstration that there is no one way to be gay.
There were a couple of descriptive choices the writer made that bugged me, but I don't think kids will be as bothered by the frequent description of people moving hair out of their faces.
September 16, 2021
4.5 stars. My 6th grade daughter and I loved this delightful book! It is heartfelt and hilarious and was a real joy to read aloud. And of course the theme promoting self-acceptance throughout was fantastic. Loved it.
April 14, 2022
This story is so charming, my heart grew three sizes
June 27, 2021
The tone and format of this coming-of-age book are fun and fast-paced. Highly recommend it for any middle-aged reader.
May 19, 2021
“Maybe Pap isn’t the person I’ve been trying to impress all this time. Maybe it was me. Maybe what I really need is to be proud of myself.” (236)
A 13-year-old drag queen; a rising comic learning the difference between insults and jokes; a three-legged blind rescue dog; a wheelchair-bound Super Hero impersonator; a dream interpreter; two best friends that offer support no matter what—and, right in the middle, their Talent Agent, rising entrepreneur Michael Pruitt of Anything Talent and Pizzazz (not Pizza) Agency.
Seventh grader Mikey (as he is called when he is out of the office) has been planning businesses, most of which have failed, to impress his beloved Pap, the original family entrepreneur who is now in a nursing home with diabetes and heart problems. His Board consists of his very supportive mother and father and his less-supportive, evil, client-stealing younger sister, Lyla. When Mickey meets Coco Caliente, Mistress of Madness and Mayhem (boy name Julian Vasquez) at school, he has found his new business.
Mikey thinks he might be—no, he knows that he is—gay, but he has only come out to his parents (“They were wicked cool about it right from the beginning.” (30)) and his two best friends although, for some unfathomable reason, the school bullies call him Gay Mikey. However, he worries that he is not good at being gay, has no gaydar, and is sure that he is not ready to like-like someone. Then he meets Julian’s friend, new student Colton Sanford whose smile makes his stomach melt. Julian, who has become a friend, tells him, “Michael, there’s no right or wrong way to be gay.” (95)
Michael spends the next weeks Googling performance terms, trying to book paying gigs for his clients, and preparing them for the school talent show where he can earn a commission if a client wins the $100 prize. And navigating the school bullies.
As Mikey, he discovers the secret of head bully Tommy Jenrette which ends up improving their relationship, and he supports Julian’s whose mother and abuela are encouraging but his father absolutely forbids him to dress up. “I just wish my dad could be proud of me,” Julian says, his shoulders sagging. “Like he used to be—before Coco Caliente.” ((94)
Mikey also encourages and defends Colton who tells him that he moved in with his grandmother because his mother is in rehab. “I guess you just never know what’s going on with someone, even if they seem okay and wear a mask that’s nice to look at.” (231) Mickey is good at letting his friends appreciate that they matter. “I think about my business ventures and how they make me feel important. And like I matter. And wanting to matter doesn’t seem like too much to ask.” (94)
The characters, especially Mickey/Michael, grabbed me on page 1. “I think CEOs of big-time companies like mine shouldn’t be required to attend middle school. It seriously gets in the way of doing important business stuff.” I have been reading many wonderful important MG novels, but Middle School’s a Drag is hilarious, the writing voice jumping right off the pages. I didn’t put it down, and neither will readers. This is a book for reluctant readers, proficient readers, and the many adolescents who need to know that they matter.
A 13-year-old drag queen; a rising comic learning the difference between insults and jokes; a three-legged blind rescue dog; a wheelchair-bound Super Hero impersonator; a dream interpreter; two best friends that offer support no matter what—and, right in the middle, their Talent Agent, rising entrepreneur Michael Pruitt of Anything Talent and Pizzazz (not Pizza) Agency.
Seventh grader Mikey (as he is called when he is out of the office) has been planning businesses, most of which have failed, to impress his beloved Pap, the original family entrepreneur who is now in a nursing home with diabetes and heart problems. His Board consists of his very supportive mother and father and his less-supportive, evil, client-stealing younger sister, Lyla. When Mickey meets Coco Caliente, Mistress of Madness and Mayhem (boy name Julian Vasquez) at school, he has found his new business.
Mikey thinks he might be—no, he knows that he is—gay, but he has only come out to his parents (“They were wicked cool about it right from the beginning.” (30)) and his two best friends although, for some unfathomable reason, the school bullies call him Gay Mikey. However, he worries that he is not good at being gay, has no gaydar, and is sure that he is not ready to like-like someone. Then he meets Julian’s friend, new student Colton Sanford whose smile makes his stomach melt. Julian, who has become a friend, tells him, “Michael, there’s no right or wrong way to be gay.” (95)
Michael spends the next weeks Googling performance terms, trying to book paying gigs for his clients, and preparing them for the school talent show where he can earn a commission if a client wins the $100 prize. And navigating the school bullies.
As Mikey, he discovers the secret of head bully Tommy Jenrette which ends up improving their relationship, and he supports Julian’s whose mother and abuela are encouraging but his father absolutely forbids him to dress up. “I just wish my dad could be proud of me,” Julian says, his shoulders sagging. “Like he used to be—before Coco Caliente.” ((94)
Mikey also encourages and defends Colton who tells him that he moved in with his grandmother because his mother is in rehab. “I guess you just never know what’s going on with someone, even if they seem okay and wear a mask that’s nice to look at.” (231) Mickey is good at letting his friends appreciate that they matter. “I think about my business ventures and how they make me feel important. And like I matter. And wanting to matter doesn’t seem like too much to ask.” (94)
The characters, especially Mickey/Michael, grabbed me on page 1. “I think CEOs of big-time companies like mine shouldn’t be required to attend middle school. It seriously gets in the way of doing important business stuff.” I have been reading many wonderful important MG novels, but Middle School’s a Drag is hilarious, the writing voice jumping right off the pages. I didn’t put it down, and neither will readers. This is a book for reluctant readers, proficient readers, and the many adolescents who need to know that they matter.
June 21, 2020
Middle School's a Drag : You Better Werk! by Greg Howard, 287 pages. Putnam (Penguin Random House), 2020. $17.
Language: G; Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG.
BUYING ADVISORY: MS - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
12yo Michael Pruitt is an entrepreneur; he is the president, CEO and founder of Anything Inc. but so far none of his ideas have proven successful. Then 8th grader and kid drag artist Julian Vasquez AKA Coco Caliente Mistress of Madness and Mayhem asks Mikey to be his agent. A talent agent? What a great idea - they make commissions don't they? Mikey quickly forms the Anything Talent and Pizzazz Agency, and increases his offerings by representing 4 other middle school acts - A Stand up Comic, A Dream Interpreter, A Dog Act and a Super Hero Impersonator. Now, he just needs one of his acts to win the $100 prize at the school talent show and he'll make his Grandpa proud.
Greg Howard's darling story has some underlying drama - Michael hasn't come out to anyone but his parents and his 2 best friends - but his association with Julian might make him the "wrong kind of popular." Julian's dad is having a difficult time with his son's career choice. There's also a pretty mean bully and his two friends who are ruthless with Michael and his group, and Michael's hero - his grandfather is declining and in a rest home. I loved Michael's supportive parents, and his relationship with his 9-year-old precocious and very irritating little sister. A solid middle school read, the kids who like RuPaul's Drag race will have a good time with Middle School's a Drag.
Lisa Librarian
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2020...
Language: G; Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG.
BUYING ADVISORY: MS - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
12yo Michael Pruitt is an entrepreneur; he is the president, CEO and founder of Anything Inc. but so far none of his ideas have proven successful. Then 8th grader and kid drag artist Julian Vasquez AKA Coco Caliente Mistress of Madness and Mayhem asks Mikey to be his agent. A talent agent? What a great idea - they make commissions don't they? Mikey quickly forms the Anything Talent and Pizzazz Agency, and increases his offerings by representing 4 other middle school acts - A Stand up Comic, A Dream Interpreter, A Dog Act and a Super Hero Impersonator. Now, he just needs one of his acts to win the $100 prize at the school talent show and he'll make his Grandpa proud.
Greg Howard's darling story has some underlying drama - Michael hasn't come out to anyone but his parents and his 2 best friends - but his association with Julian might make him the "wrong kind of popular." Julian's dad is having a difficult time with his son's career choice. There's also a pretty mean bully and his two friends who are ruthless with Michael and his group, and Michael's hero - his grandfather is declining and in a rest home. I loved Michael's supportive parents, and his relationship with his 9-year-old precocious and very irritating little sister. A solid middle school read, the kids who like RuPaul's Drag race will have a good time with Middle School's a Drag.
Lisa Librarian
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2020...
July 13, 2020
I did not like Mikey when this book started, but I absolutely loved him by the time I turned the last page. Throughout the book he has moments of utter cluelessness that border on unbelievable. However, he shows such much emotional growth as the book progresses that he ended up stealing my heart.
November 25, 2020
LAUGH OUT LOUD HUH. LAR. REE. US!!
I loved the Rupaul's Drag Race references and the story. I really liked how Mikey showed Tommy who's boss and made him stop bothering him just because he was gay.
AND OMG! THE BIG FINALE!!!!!
THAT DEATH DROP.
COLTON AND MIKEY BACKUP DANCERS.
YAAAASSSSSS HONEY!!!!!!!!
I loved the Rupaul's Drag Race references and the story. I really liked how Mikey showed Tommy who's boss and made him stop bothering him just because he was gay.
AND OMG! THE BIG FINALE!!!!!
THAT DEATH DROP.
COLTON AND MIKEY BACKUP DANCERS.
YAAAASSSSSS HONEY!!!!!!!!
December 1, 2020
OMG - did I ever enjoy this novel! A super quick read that works for all ages. Though acceptable kids of all ages, it works super well for adults, too. I found the voice of the narrator to be authentic and well developed. And this whole book is flippin hilarious!! I found the story to be a happy one for this time of year - a much needed light and fun time.
March 5, 2020
Read for an article assignment and while this gay-positive book would certainly be helpful for the right MG/YA individual (ages 10-14ish), I found the rude sibling interactions throughout the book a complete turnoff.
October 26, 2020
This book was a pure delight to read! Absolutely loved it. Such a sweet story. Cried through the ending! If you like MG and drag queens and talent shows, you should read this lovely story!
November 21, 2021
Disgusting and inappropriate for children.
January 10, 2022
Mikey Pruitt (12) is a businessman, an entrepreneur. He is the president, founder, and CEO of Anything, Inc. His office is in the garage of his house. His assistant (9 year old sister) was recently let go, and he has to report to the board (his parents) weekly. When Julian (AKA Miss Coco Caliente, Mistress of Madness and Mayhem) approaches him looking for talent representation, Mikey sees a new business opportunity.
While the title may lead you to believe the main character finds an outlet in drag, that is not the case. What Mikey does find though, is new friends, learns that there isn't a right way to be gay, and confidence in himself as a CEO and talent agent. He manages to get himself a client list and all but one of them into the end of year school talent show that is offering a grand prize of $100.
Listen, Mikey is absolutely clueless. But he's 12! And he figures stuff out as he goes along. Some of his misconceptions about business, and life, made me genuinely laugh out loud. He requests $1000 for a first time performance by a superhero impersonator. His reasoning? If he asks for something unreasonable, then the offer will be higher than what you expected. And he is persistent! He has the guts to call a late night host to get one of his clients, a comedian, a spot on the show.
There is a fun cast of characters from Julian, Mikey's little sister, his friends and clients. His little sister is sassy going so far as to steal one of his clients.
Mikey is gay, but he's more in the closet than out. He has told his parents, who are incredibly supportive of his identity and business endeavors. His two best friends know, but that is it. He does have a crush on a boy named Colton who, it turns out, is good friends with Julian. Like with business, he is a little clueless on LGBTQ+ culture. At one point, he feels like he is a "bad gay". But he learns that there is no one right way to be himself.
While the title may lead you to believe the main character finds an outlet in drag, that is not the case. What Mikey does find though, is new friends, learns that there isn't a right way to be gay, and confidence in himself as a CEO and talent agent. He manages to get himself a client list and all but one of them into the end of year school talent show that is offering a grand prize of $100.
Listen, Mikey is absolutely clueless. But he's 12! And he figures stuff out as he goes along. Some of his misconceptions about business, and life, made me genuinely laugh out loud. He requests $1000 for a first time performance by a superhero impersonator. His reasoning? If he asks for something unreasonable, then the offer will be higher than what you expected. And he is persistent! He has the guts to call a late night host to get one of his clients, a comedian, a spot on the show.
There is a fun cast of characters from Julian, Mikey's little sister, his friends and clients. His little sister is sassy going so far as to steal one of his clients.
Mikey is gay, but he's more in the closet than out. He has told his parents, who are incredibly supportive of his identity and business endeavors. His two best friends know, but that is it. He does have a crush on a boy named Colton who, it turns out, is good friends with Julian. Like with business, he is a little clueless on LGBTQ+ culture. At one point, he feels like he is a "bad gay". But he learns that there is no one right way to be himself.
February 20, 2020
MG lit isn't usually up my alley, but the premise of this was too hard to resist. I've thought a lot about whether to give this a 4 or 5 star rating, and I've settled on 4.
First, the book is definitely worth your time if the premise at all interests you. I do understand some of the concerns on other reviews here that Mikey's personality is simply too grating. I did tire of the "and, OMG" and "crazy wicked cool" and "crazy wicked professional" repetitive narration--but his voice for its flaws feels authentic, and my rating is based on how well the book accomplishes its goals, not necessarily whether it does what I wanted it to.
I don't give it a five because (no spoilers) I don't think the resolution of the story wrapped up all of the plot lines as well as it could have. In addition, the MC's character growth, while great, felt like it was short of what it was going for. Mikey coming to terms with who he is was fantastic and genuine and the payoff was phenomenal. However, he is a bit of a brat, and in that regard he more or less ends the novel where he started off. Clueless as to his behavior and obsessed with the money of the commission he'll get. I'm glad Howard did not give us a scene with Mikey demanding part of Julian's winnings because I get the sense that conversation won't go well.
Then again, maybe it isn't necessary that Mikey grows too much in the story. He's a kid, and if he grew too much as a character it might come off as disingenuous.
Anyways, I loved the book--Michael Crouch's narration is, as always, phenomenal. Definitely recommend it.
First, the book is definitely worth your time if the premise at all interests you. I do understand some of the concerns on other reviews here that Mikey's personality is simply too grating. I did tire of the "and, OMG" and "crazy wicked cool" and "crazy wicked professional" repetitive narration--but his voice for its flaws feels authentic, and my rating is based on how well the book accomplishes its goals, not necessarily whether it does what I wanted it to.
I don't give it a five because (no spoilers) I don't think the resolution of the story wrapped up all of the plot lines as well as it could have. In addition, the MC's character growth, while great, felt like it was short of what it was going for. Mikey coming to terms with who he is was fantastic and genuine and the payoff was phenomenal. However, he is a bit of a brat, and in that regard he more or less ends the novel where he started off. Clueless as to his behavior and obsessed with the money of the commission he'll get. I'm glad Howard did not give us a scene with Mikey demanding part of Julian's winnings because I get the sense that conversation won't go well.
Then again, maybe it isn't necessary that Mikey grows too much in the story. He's a kid, and if he grew too much as a character it might come off as disingenuous.
Anyways, I loved the book--Michael Crouch's narration is, as always, phenomenal. Definitely recommend it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2020
12 yo Michael Pruitt is an entrepreneur; he is the president, CEO and founder of Anything Inc. but so far none of his ideas have proven successful. Then 8th grader and kid drag artist Julian Vasquez AKA Coco Caliente Mistress of Madness and Mayhem asks Mikey to be his agent. A talent agent? What a great idea - they make commissions don't they? Mikey quickly forms the Anything Talent and Pizzazz Agency, and increases his offerings by representing 4 other middle school acts - A Stand up Comic, A Dream Interpreter, A Dog Act and a Super Hero Impersonator. Now, he just needs one of his acts to win the $100 prize at the school talent show and he'll make his Grandpa proud.
Greg Howard's darling story has some underlying drama - Michael hasn't come out to anyone but his parents and his 2 best friends - but his association with Julian might make him the "wrong kind of popular." Julian's dad is having a difficult time with his son's career choice. There's also a pretty mean bully and his two friends who are ruthless with Michael and his group, and Michael's hero - his grandfather is declining and in a rest home. I loved Michael's supportive parents, and his relationship with his 9-year-old precocious and very irritating little sister. A solid middle school read, the kids who like RuPaul's Drag race will have a good time with Middle School's a Drag.
For this and more of my reviews, visit http://kissthebook.blogspot.com
Greg Howard's darling story has some underlying drama - Michael hasn't come out to anyone but his parents and his 2 best friends - but his association with Julian might make him the "wrong kind of popular." Julian's dad is having a difficult time with his son's career choice. There's also a pretty mean bully and his two friends who are ruthless with Michael and his group, and Michael's hero - his grandfather is declining and in a rest home. I loved Michael's supportive parents, and his relationship with his 9-year-old precocious and very irritating little sister. A solid middle school read, the kids who like RuPaul's Drag race will have a good time with Middle School's a Drag.
For this and more of my reviews, visit http://kissthebook.blogspot.com
June 13, 2020
This book is like, what if Better off Nate, but only if Nate is a privileged baby gay Michael Scott instead of an adorable, naive, hilarious, and earnest pear-shaped child.
I obviously don't really mean that as a compliment...at least not so far. But I may be affected by how triggering it is to have a child perform all the actions that men who think they're very important do. All of them. I want to shake him and say, "listen up, you privileged little #$@&, The world will not be your oyster."
The book gets better toward the end but the kid never really stops doing the horrifying manchild things that he does. It was a reasonably fun read, despite all that.
I think the author is probably aware that this child is an a-hole. I just don't know why he persists in rubbing it in our faces to make us hate him.
The only cute thing this kid ever does is using Ms. for everyone who wears women's clothing. As in, "Ms. Beyoncé" and LMAO "Ms. Ru Paul."
Ms. Lady Gaga. Lol.
"Trey and Danesh fist bump me before they leave... Because that's how straight boys let you know that they're your friend and they love you."
"And, no, I don't know why Mr. Arnold called me--a 12-year-old boy--ma'am."
It kind of feels like this is an antique school. Don't all middle schoolers have phones? Seemed like they did like 20 years ago. Also any business strategy that doesn't include a digital platform is kind of weird actually, especially when he's actively calling himself Gen z and criticizing millennials for not having manners or whatever.
I obviously don't really mean that as a compliment...at least not so far. But I may be affected by how triggering it is to have a child perform all the actions that men who think they're very important do. All of them. I want to shake him and say, "listen up, you privileged little #$@&, The world will not be your oyster."
The book gets better toward the end but the kid never really stops doing the horrifying manchild things that he does. It was a reasonably fun read, despite all that.
I think the author is probably aware that this child is an a-hole. I just don't know why he persists in rubbing it in our faces to make us hate him.
The only cute thing this kid ever does is using Ms. for everyone who wears women's clothing. As in, "Ms. Beyoncé" and LMAO "Ms. Ru Paul."
Ms. Lady Gaga. Lol.
"Trey and Danesh fist bump me before they leave... Because that's how straight boys let you know that they're your friend and they love you."
"And, no, I don't know why Mr. Arnold called me--a 12-year-old boy--ma'am."
It kind of feels like this is an antique school. Don't all middle schoolers have phones? Seemed like they did like 20 years ago. Also any business strategy that doesn't include a digital platform is kind of weird actually, especially when he's actively calling himself Gen z and criticizing millennials for not having manners or whatever.
August 27, 2020
The trend toward clever, witty narratives for middle-schoolers could have completely overtaken this book and given us another snark-filled book about adolescents and surviving school until the next party. Instead Greg Howard has written a story about a precocious pre-teen, Mikey, with his dreams of entrepreneurial success and search for self-acceptance. Mikey knows he's gay -- he's come out to his parents and two best friends -- but isn't sure how to deal with it. He's much more concerned about making his beloved grandfather proud of him since he knows Pap won't be around much longer.
When Mikey is approached to be a talent agent for an openly gay student drag performer, he is suddenly in the thick of arranging gigs, coping with bullies, and coming to terms with his first full-on crush on another boy. There were many places where this story could have become unnecessarily acerbic or treacly, but the author treats his characters carefully -- not telling the reader everything about them in the first two chapters of the book or what to make of them. Mikey as protagonist sometimes seems insensitive, but he is also introspective, a good organizer, and concerned with helping others find their success. Worth a read for the diverse set of characters and the smart dialogue.
When Mikey is approached to be a talent agent for an openly gay student drag performer, he is suddenly in the thick of arranging gigs, coping with bullies, and coming to terms with his first full-on crush on another boy. There were many places where this story could have become unnecessarily acerbic or treacly, but the author treats his characters carefully -- not telling the reader everything about them in the first two chapters of the book or what to make of them. Mikey as protagonist sometimes seems insensitive, but he is also introspective, a good organizer, and concerned with helping others find their success. Worth a read for the diverse set of characters and the smart dialogue.
February 16, 2020
I was so excited to read this book. It’s the first middle grades book I’ve read with a child who performs as a drag queen. This is essential representation for those who love to perform as drag queens or kings, as well as those who do not.
Mikey adores his grandpa and wants to follow in his footsteps. He wants to be a businessman, and starts a variety of businesses in his school and neighborhood. Julian comes to Mikey and asks him to be his agent; Julian performs as Coco Caliente, Mistress of Madness and Mayhem. Mikey creates his newest business—a talent agency—and recruits other children from school.
I loved the relationships in this book; they are what made the book shine. Unfortunately, some of the characters are not well-developed, and some events seemed to be contrived and overly dramatic.
There are touching and memorable moments as well. Despite the unrealistic parts and the lack of character development for some characters, this is a novel that many middle grade readers will love. It is funny and sweet. It also provides much-needed representation. Thus, I think it is a great purchase for upper elementary and middle school classroom and school libraries.
Thank you to Edelweiss + for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Mikey adores his grandpa and wants to follow in his footsteps. He wants to be a businessman, and starts a variety of businesses in his school and neighborhood. Julian comes to Mikey and asks him to be his agent; Julian performs as Coco Caliente, Mistress of Madness and Mayhem. Mikey creates his newest business—a talent agency—and recruits other children from school.
I loved the relationships in this book; they are what made the book shine. Unfortunately, some of the characters are not well-developed, and some events seemed to be contrived and overly dramatic.
There are touching and memorable moments as well. Despite the unrealistic parts and the lack of character development for some characters, this is a novel that many middle grade readers will love. It is funny and sweet. It also provides much-needed representation. Thus, I think it is a great purchase for upper elementary and middle school classroom and school libraries.
Thank you to Edelweiss + for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2023
Michael Pruitt is a motivated, inspired middle schooler who has the confidence to create his own talent agency. He is business minded and fills this story with lots of "tips" on how to be successful. This look at middle school from a student who sits in the "green zone" of the lunch room, highlights the less popular the kids. The kids that are unique and have lots to offer, but aren't sporty or popular. With an end of the year talent show in his sights, Michael brings together his friends Dinesh, Trey and unfortunately his little sister Lyla, to his agency. His clients; Julian aka Coco Caliente Mistress of Mayhem, Sadie and her blind dog Fifi, Brady the comedian, and Charvi the dream interpreter all find someplace their talents are appreciated. Weaved in are family issues, Papi Pruitt- a beloved grandfather, Colton's mom just getting out of rehab and Julian Vasquez's father disapproving of his drag kid show all highlight the struggles of a. middle schooler.
Topics: talent agency, drag queen, gay, family, friendship, middle school dynamics
Recommended: grade 6+
Topics: talent agency, drag queen, gay, family, friendship, middle school dynamics
Recommended: grade 6+
April 16, 2020
I really really enjoyed this book! I was so excited to read a book about a middle school drag queen. I worried that in the end, I wouldn't like it and think it was poorly written, but I am SO HAPPY that was not the case!
Mikey Pruitt was a wonderful character. I really loved being able to see him grow through his own acceptance of being gay and what a "good gay" meant. He was funny, real, and just an overall great kid. I loved how he ran his own business and he did it rather well!
I laughed, I cried, I said "Yaaasss queen" many times. This was just overall a really great, beautiful book about love, kindness, acceptance, and being proud of who you are and what you can do. Thank you so much, Greg Howard, for putting this great literature out into the world. It's wonderful.
Mikey Pruitt was a wonderful character. I really loved being able to see him grow through his own acceptance of being gay and what a "good gay" meant. He was funny, real, and just an overall great kid. I loved how he ran his own business and he did it rather well!
I laughed, I cried, I said "Yaaasss queen" many times. This was just overall a really great, beautiful book about love, kindness, acceptance, and being proud of who you are and what you can do. Thank you so much, Greg Howard, for putting this great literature out into the world. It's wonderful.
June 20, 2020
This book is so much fun! Mikey is a 12yo entrepreneur who airways has an idea for the next big money making scheme. His newest one is talent agent and his first client is Julian, aka Coco Caliente, Mistress of Madness and Mayhem. Yes, Julian is a kid drag queen trying to find his stage. Mikey takes on the task as well as a few other talented kids. Together, the rising stars and the talent agent of Anything Talent and Pizzazz Agency learn how to succeed in the entertainment world. Lots of heart and sass in the pages of this story!
February 19, 2022
DNF for Middle School's a Drag, You Better Werk! (I don't even know what's going on with that title. If it must have two parts, a colon or semicolon or em dash or parentheses or making it two separate sentences would all work. Just about the only wrong ways to do it would be a comma splice, as is apparently what the author or an editor chose, or an ambiguous lack of separation, which is what is shown on the cover.) Anyway, just wasn't liking Mikey's narrative voice, and his obsession with business was hard to believe in a kid.
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