Old School – Gordon Korman

Dexter Foreman has spent most of his life living at The Pines retirement community with his grandmother, surrounded by seniors who homeschool him. At twelve years old, he’s more comfortable discussing classic movies with retirees than navigating the chaos of middle school. But when a truancy officer discovers Dex’s unconventional education, he’s forced to enroll in public school—a place where his vintage wardrobe, old-school hobbies, and grumpy demeanor make him stand out like a sore thumb.

At Wolf’s Eye Middle School, Dex becomes a curiosity. While some students, like sharp-eyed reporter Gianna Greco, find his quirks intriguing, others see him as an easy target. Dex’s only goal is to return to his quiet life at The Pines, but fate has other plans. When his resourcefulness catches the attention of the school community, Dex accidentally becomes a local hero, bridging the gap between generations in unexpected ways.

The story explores Dex’s struggle to fit into a world that values conformity while staying true to his unique upbringing. Korman weaves humor and heart into Dex’s journey, highlighting the clash between Dex’s “old soul” and the modern middle school ecosystem. From repairing broken equipment with his trusty Swiss Army knife to bonding with classmates over shared frustrations, Dex slowly learns that friendship can bloom in the unlikeliest places.

As tensions rise between Dex’s two worlds, a showdown looms: Will his newfound popularity at school upend his life at The Pines? Korman’s signature blend of wit and warmth shines through, delivering a tale about embracing differences, challenging stereotypes, and discovering that home isn’t just a place—it’s the people who accept you as you are.