Mercy on These Teenage Chimps

On his thirteenth birthday, Ronnie woke up feeling like a chimp-all long armed, big eared, and gangly. He's been muddling through each gawky day since. Now his best friend, Joey, has turned thirteen, too-and after Joey humiliates himself in front of a cute girl, he climbs a tree and refuses to come down. So Ronnie sets out to woo the girl on Joey's behalf. After all, teenage chimps have to stick together.
Acclaimed author Gary Soto tells a fun and touching story about friendship, understanding, and the painful insecurities of being thirteen. What does it take to get your best friend out of a tree? Teenage Awkwardness: Ronnie and Joey are officially thirteen, which means long arms, big ears, and the constant feeling that they're more chimp than human. A Hilarious Mission: When Joey gets stuck in a tree after a mortifying moment, Ronnie takes on the role of Cupid to help him win the girl and get back on solid ground.
Middle School Life: Navigating embarrassing run-ins with cute girls, facing down bullies, and trying to survive detention, all while just trying to be a good friend. Heart and Humor: A laugh-out-loud story from acclaimed author Gary Soto that perfectly captures the gawkiness and loyalty of being thirteen.