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"This Can't Be Happening at Macdonald Hall!" by Gordon Korman follows the misadventures of Bruno and Boots, two prankster best friends at Macdonald Hall boarding school. When their headmaster separates them after one too many pranks, Bruno and Boots must come up with a plan to reunite and prove themselves as legendary jokesters. The book is filled with non-stop hijinks, practical jokes, and humorous antics that keep readers entertained as the duo navigates through challenges and schemes to save their reputations.

Gordon Korman's writing style in this book is simple, quick, and amusing, catering perfectly to middle school readers. The characters of Bruno and Boots, although not deeply developed, are depicted as mischievous and entertaining, engaging readers in their adventures and pranks. The plot, although somewhat predictable, is filled with ridiculous yet believable circumstances that lead to a satisfying conclusion, making it an enjoyable read for those looking for school stories or comedy tales.

If you liked This Can't Be Happening at Macdonald Hall!, here are the top 100 books to read next:

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  1. #1

    I Want to Go Home! by Gordon Korman
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    'I Want to Go Home!' by Gordon Korman is a hilarious tale of two misfit kids, Rudy and Mike, who meet at summer camp and form a bond. The story revolves around their attempts to escape Camp Algonquin, which is filled with quirky characters and comical situations. is set in a summer camp with no adults except for the camp counselors, who are seen as clones by Rudy, and a distracted camp director. The plot is filled with humor, sarcasm, and escapades that appeal to kids and adults alike. Gordon Korman's writing style is engaging, witty, and filled with 80s nostalgia that resonates with readers.

    The early summer sunshine streamed down over Camp Algonkian Island. The trim on the twenty-two cabins was brightly painted, the excellent athletic fields had been freshly mowed, and an assortment of b...

  2. #2
    The Willoughbys
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    Book 1 in the series:The Willoughbys

    The Willoughbys - The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry
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    The Willoughbys is a humorous and quirky tale about a family of four children and two neglectful parents who are trying to get rid of each other. The children, tired of their unloving parents, devise a plan to convince their mom and dad to take a perilous vacation, while the parents have their own plan to sell the house and rid themselves of the children. With the introduction of Nanny, Commander Melanoff, and Ruth, the Willoughby children's lives take unexpected turns, leading to the creation of an unlikely family in a story filled with dark humor and heartwarming moments.

    The book is a playful homage to classic children's stories, featuring a dysfunctional yet charming group of characters who long for adventures like the orphans in old-fashioned tales. Through witty conversations, obscure references, and a humorous glossary, The Willoughbys weaves a narrative full of twists and turns, ultimately culminating in a happy ending that delights readers of all ages.

    The eldest was a boy named Timothy; he was twelve. Barnaby and Barnaby were ten-year-old twins. No one could tell them apart, and it was even more confusing because they had the same name; so they wer...

  3. #3

    Anastasia Krupnik - Anastasia Krupnik by Lois Lowry
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    'Anastasia Krupnik' by Lois Lowry is a heartwarming story about a ten-year-old girl navigating the challenges of growing up. Through the eyes of Anastasia, readers experience her daily trials, triumphs, and evolving perspectives captured in her green notebook. The plot revolves around Anastasia's experiences dealing with issues like first crushes, family changes, and self-discovery, all presented in a humorous and relatable tone.

    Anastasia Krupnik was ten. She had hair the color of Hubbard squash, fourteen freckles across her nose (and seven others in places that she preferred people not to know about), and glasses with large ...

  4. #4

    The School at the Chalet - The Chalet School by Elinor M. Brent-Dyer
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    'The School at the Chalet' is the very first Chalet School story, published in 1925, that introduces readers to Madge Bettany, a young woman who establishes a boarding school in the Austrian Alps. Joined by her younger sister Joey and a mix of girls from different backgrounds, the story follows the challenges and adventures faced by the characters as they navigate life at the school. The setting in the Austrian Alps is vividly captured, transporting readers to a different time and place with a strong sense of integrity shining through the narrative.

    Only three weeks til the end of term! Nothing much can happen in three weeks!’ Thus Madge Bettany, as she sat in her bedroom, talking things over with Mademoisel e La Pâttre. ‘Our first term,’ she wen...

  5. #5

    No More Dead Dogs by Gordon Korman
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    "No More Dead Dogs" by Gordon Korman follows Wallace Wallace, an honest eighth-grade football hero who lands in detention for giving a negative review of the book Old Shep, My Pal. Forced to attend play rehearsals as punishment, Wallace starts making suggestions to improve the play, ultimately changing it into a rock and roll rollerskating show. As Wallace becomes more involved in the drama club, someone begins sabotaging the play, leading many to suspect Wallace himself. Through humor and unexpected friendships, Wallace navigates detention, football, and the school play, questioning the common theme of dogs dying in classic novels.

    The book is a light and humorous take on middle school life, exploring themes of honesty, friendship, and self-discovery. Through Wallace Wallace's unwavering honesty and unique perspective, the story delves into the importance of staying true to oneself, even when faced with challenges and misunderstandings.

    I should say that I had nothing against Mr. Fogelman at that moment. He was okay—the kind of young teacher who tries to be “one of the guys,” but everything he does only shows how out of it he is. I j...

  6. #6

    Back Home by Michelle Magorian
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    'Back Home' by Michelle Magorian is a poignant story set in post-World War II England, following the return of Virginia Dickinson, nicknamed Rusty, from her evacuation to the USA. The book explores Rusty's struggles as she tries to readjust to life in England after five years away, her complex family dynamics, and the challenges she faces at a strict boarding school. Through the eyes of Rusty, the readers witness themes of family separation, identity crisis, and societal changes post-war, all depicted with a mix of heartwarming moments and darker undertones. Magorian's writing style effectively captures the emotional journey of the characters, especially Rusty, as they navigate the complexities of a war-torn society.

    After the previous night’s farewell concert, given by all the groups of children and teenagers to the crew and each other, Rusty had sat next to her. She had watched the others play party games and ha...

  7. #7

    The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane - Black Hollow Lane by Julia Nobel
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    Emmy, a young girl whose mother is too busy with her career as a parenting guru, is sent to a prestigious boarding school in England. Upon arrival, she discovers mysterious medallions that belonged to her missing father and gets entangled in a dangerous quest to uncover the truth about his disappearance. The book combines elements of mystery, friendship, and school life, creating a captivating story with rich character development and vivid settings.

    There were certain things Emmy’s mother didn’t really need to know. Trivial things like whether Emmy had clipped her toenails or that she’d stepped in something sticky at the park. But the letter in E...

  8. #8

    Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
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    Number the Stars by Lois Lowry is a middle-grade historical fiction novel set in Denmark during World War II. The story follows Annemarie Johansen, a young Danish girl who, along with her family, helps her Jewish best friend, Ellen Rosen, escape the Nazis by pretending she is part of their family. Through Annemarie's perspective, readers witness themes of bravery, courage, friendship, and resistance against oppression. The book provides a glimpse into the hardships faced by Jews during the Holocaust and the Danish Resistance's efforts to protect their fellow citizens.

    The narrative style of Number the Stars is engaging and emotional, offering a poignant portrayal of the Nazi occupation of Denmark and the risks taken by ordinary citizens to save lives during a time of war. The author, Lois Lowry, skillfully weaves a story that educates young readers about historical events while emphasizing the importance of bravery and standing up for what is right, even in the face of danger.

    "We have to practice for the athletic meet on Friday—I know I'm going to win the girls' race this week. I was second last week, but I've been practicing every day. Come on, Ellen," Annemarie pleaded, ...

  9. #9
    Ungifted
    Book 1 in the series:Ungifted

    Ungifted - Ungifted by Gordon Korman
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    Donovan Curtis, a troublemaker known for his pranks, ends up in a gifted school by mistake after causing damage to the school gym. Despite not fitting in academically, Donovan's unique talents bring a new perspective to the gifted students, leading to unexpected friendships and personal growth. Told through multiple viewpoints, the story explores themes of acceptance, teamwork, and the idea that everyone has something valuable to contribute.


  10. #10

    The 6th Grade Nickname Game by Gordon Korman
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    The sixth grade nickname game is a game where teachers and students obtain new names created just for them based on their personal attributes.

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