It's the ultimate test for middle school friendships!

Frederick Douglass Zezzmer already has his entire life figured out...and he's only in middle school!

Doug’s going to be The World's Greatest Inventor if he can just convince his Pops—a legendary Denver Broncos wide receiver—that science is just as important as sports.

So when Principal Yee announces an epic competition, Doug knows he has to win. But that won't be easy! The competition doesn't just include "unconventional" STEAM challenges. It also has (gulp) sports.

Even worse, it's a team competition. And instead of being in a superstar group, Doug gets paired with four middle school misfits no one else wants.

Doug only has one week to turn his team of outcasts into winners ... and maybe even friends. Will his legendary invention-making skills be enough?

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Control Freaks is a STEM fiction & satire novel that is perfect for ages 8-12 and for adults. Topics include middle school friendships, blended families, STEAM and sports.

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J.E. Thomas, Author

"...suspenseful competition...traces learning curves not only for the students but for teachers and parents, too. Reminiscent of E. L. Konigsburg’s The View from Saturday."

— Booklist, Starred Review

"Thomas uses wacky humor to deliver a light but laudable message about teamwork and friendship being more important than placing first."

—School Library Journal

"Creative and hilarious...the novel’s narration shifts among many perspectives, giving a rich, panoramic view."

—Kirkus

"...witty competition drama...prioritizes characters’ interiority as well as their impact on each other’s lives...a well-rounded accounting that is better for its multiplicity.."

— Publishers Weekly

"Thomas’s debut novel is a refreshing take on middle-school life—smart kids who know they are going places but learn to take care of one another along the way."

—Dean Schneider, The Horn Book

"Rich characters, realistic portrayal of middle school life, and action surrounding a STEAMS competition makes Control Freaks a perfect book for kids, parents, and educators alike."

—Fleur Bradley, CO Book Award Winner

It's the ultimate test for middle school friendships!

Reviews!

"Dorky fun of the highest order."

J.E. Thomas, Author

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