Book Review

“Best Nerds Forever” by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein is a humorous and heartfelt middle-grade novel that follows the story of Finn McAllister, a self-proclaimed nerd navigating the chaos of middle school. Everything changes when Finn, while riding his bicycle home from school, is hit by a mysterious black van—and becomes a ghost.

As a ghost, Finn is determined to uncover the truth behind his untimely death. Who was driving the black van? Was it truly an accident—or something more sinister?

But this story is more than just a supernatural mystery. It’s a celebration of geek culture, friendship, self-acceptance, and the ups and downs of adolescence. Set against the backdrop of a school where being a nerd is both a challenge and a badge of honor, the novel explores the beauty of staying true to yourself.

Patterson’s signature fast-paced, witty storytelling is complemented by clever pop culture references and relatable characters. The dialogue is snappy and fun, making it highly engaging for readers aged 9–12. What stands out most is the genuine portrayal of nerdiness—not as a flaw, but as a superpower.