Frindle

When clever fifth-grader Nick Allen decides to invent a new word for 'pen'—calling it a 'frindle'—he never expects his playful prank to spiral into a nationwide phenomenon. His battle of wits with his strict but equally sharp language arts teacher, Mrs. Granger, becomes a fascinating exploration of how language evolves and who really controls it. This beloved, humor-filled story celebrates creativity, critical thinking, and the power of ideas, while also examining themes of authority, unintended consequences, and mutual respect between generations. There is no LGBTQ+ representation or diverse cultural/disability representation noted in this book; its focus is primarily on school life, language, and the dynamic between a student and teacher.