Alan Cole Is Not a Coward

Perfect for fans of Tim Federle and Gary Schmidt, this is a hilarious and poignant tale about the trials of middle school when you're coming of age-and coming out. Alan Cole can't stand up to his cruel brother, Nathan. He can't escape the wrath of his demanding father, who thinks he's about as exceptional as a goldfish. And-scariest of all-he can't let the cute boy across the cafeteria know he has a crush on him.
But when Nathan discovers Alan's secret, his older brother announces a high-stakes round of Cole vs. Cole. Each brother must complete seven nearly impossible tasks; whoever finishes the most wins the game. If Alan doesn't want to be outed to all of Evergreen Middle School, he's got to become the most well-known kid in school, get his first kiss, and stand up to Dad. Alan's determined to prove-to Nathan, to the world, to himself-that this goldfish can learn to swim.
May the best Cole win. What does it take to prove you're not a coward? A High-Stakes Sibling Bet: Alan's cruel older brother, Nathan, challenges him to a round of Cole vs. Cole-seven impossible tasks with everything on the line. First Crush Jitters: All Alan wants is for the cute boy in the cafeteria to notice him, but his secret crush is the one thing that could bring his whole world crashing down.
Finding Your Voice: From standing up to a demanding dad who calls him a "goldfish" to proving his brother wrong, Alan has to find the courage he never knew he had. The Power of Friendship: With the help of some unlikely new friends, Alan learns that you don't have to face the trials of middle school all on your own.