The Rules of Never: A Middle School Survival Guide (Book 1 of 2: The Rules of Never) Paperback – September 18, 2016

"Because sometimes a guy has to learn the hard way." From the back cover: The Rules of Never: A Middle School Survival Guide  What a special book for the targeted readers and for anyone who loves them or wants to understand them better.Our library hosted 20+ Wisconsin children's book authors and each would answer the questions about ideas and getting started by saying, "Write what you know." Phil Adam knows kids. In his own memories of adolescence and as a parent and especially in his 34 year teaching career he surely lived or witnessed many of the situations in this book. Readers of ANY age will laugh and wince at some of the adventures involving a bully, the perfect girl crush, and the consequences of not being truthful or responsible.Every aspect of this book is so well done. Artwork by Carolyn Paplham perfectly complements the book without being childish. The clever chapter headings (lobster boxer shorts?!?) often correspond with that chapter's final paragraph. Each chapter follows a month of the school year and thankfully, the main character does indeed survive after some of those hard earned lessons. The dialog is witty and believable. I've purchased a total of ten copies and will be sharing them with former library colleagues and with some favorite young people.My only wish for the book is that the author would have thrown a little more love at the English teacher and librarian of Lost Creek Middle School, but I must admit, the adults in this book add to the heartwarming humor in RULES OF NEVER. Highly Recommended!

This book is realistic of what sixth grade boys experience in their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. It has a good lesson to be learned as Phil and his friends move on to seventh grade. Phil keeps trying to get out of school responsibilities by telling lies and nothing works for him as it always backfires. As a teacher, I can relate to the actions of sixth grade boys which have happened during my career. Also, my middle school grandson enjoyed the humor and could relate to the happenings, but also figured out that Phil should have been more responsible. I highly recommend this book for all middle school students. Many boys at this age aren't excited about reading and this book would certainly interest them and hold their attention.

Phil writes with a keen sense of what life is like for a new 6th grader to middle school. A great read, not just for middle school aged kids, but also adults will find many memories in the book as well

I highly recommend this book. I was laughing so hard at the antics of the middle school student, Phil, that my mascara was running down my cheeks. My dog even looked at me strangely as I was laughing to myself. I am not a middle school boy nor student but rather a 65 year old young woman. I bought two more copies of this book for Christmas presents. The author, Phil Adam, pulls you in to discover the many antics of middle school Phil.

This is a really great book! Both adults and youth will enjoy it. I caught myself laughing aloud on several occasions! I hated to read when I was in school, but I would have felt differently if this book had been one of my assignments. It offers valuable life lessons in a creative and entertaining manner. I am looking forward to more of this author's work.

My son is starting 6th grade so I ordered the book. He’s not an avid reader but he finished it in 2 weeks and in the end really enjoyed it . He was able to relate with the characters

Fun to read & easy to pick up for one or two chapters anytime, The Rules of Never brings back funny memories of mortifying moments we all had while growing up. Great gift idea for middle school-aged kids, though readers of any age will enjoy it~! Author Phil Adam, knows kids and with The Rules of Never, has given us a great tool to ease the butterflies of a new school or school year, while imparting life lessons that will last. Highly recommended~!

While The Rules of Never may have been written for pre-teen/young-teen boys, there is a much larger audience for this clever, funny, poignant book. Teachers and parents of that age group easily come to mind. And girls of that age will learn a lot about the boys of that age as they journey through junior high with Phil and his heart-rending challenges. My 13-year old granddaughter will soon be getting her copy. A lovely read that still has me smiling! Hoping for a sequel -- M.C.