Ellie McDoodle, New Kid in School by Ruth McNally Barshaw

This book is a comic book novel, and I gave it a rating of four out of five. Ellie's family moves to a new town which means she'll be starting sixth grade at a new school with no friends. She hates being the new kid and finds it difficult to meet new people. Ellie loves to read, and the local librarian becomes her first friend. School is not as easy; a couple of kids speak to her, but most of her classmates don't attempt to get to know her. Ellie is studying about peaceful protests in one class, and the school lunch lines and meals provide her with a cause. Will her efforts make things worse or help her to fit in?

Due to the format of the book, it's a very quick read. Readers who have experienced moves to new schools and neighborhoods will easily identify with Ellie's character. The plot is simple to follow, and Ellie's family keeps things interesting. Her older sister seems like the stereotypical high school girl, but her older brother adds humor through his practical jokes.