Seventh-grader Crash Coogan has been fearless and invincible for as long as he can remember, and he barrels his way through emotional relationships with the same bullying force that he exhibits physically. Crash's least favorite person--and therefore his favorite victim for teasing and torture--is Penn Webb. From the time he first met Penn, when they both were six, Crash has been driven nuts by the peaceloving vegetarian. The fact that Penn considers Crash a friend makes it worse. But on some level that he vaguely realizes, Crash is jealous of Penn, who has a close, involved relationship with his mom and dad, while Crash feels on the periphery of his own overworked parent's lives. Crash's voice is funny and fresh, and all the characters are so very human in this insightful, unexpected narrative that look at the life of a bully from the inside out. (Ages 10-13)

Take a look behind the bully in this modern classic from Newbery medalist Jerry Spinelli that packs a punch. And don't miss the highly anticipated new novel, Dead Wednesday.

Cocky seventh-grade super-jock Crash Coogan got his nickname the day he used his first football helmet to knock his cousin Bridget flat on her backside. And he has been running over people ever since, especially Penn Webb, the dweeby, vegetarian Quaker kid who lives down the block. Through the eyes of Crash, readers get a rare glimpse into the life of a bully in this unforgettable and beloved story about stereotypes and the surprises life can bring.

"Readers will devour this humorous glimpse of what jocks are made of." --School Library Journal, starred review