Dork Diaries Author Rachel Renée Russell Launches New Series: The Misadventures of Max Crumbly

Russell’s loyal readers first met Max in Dork Diaries 10: Tales from a Not-So-Perfect Pet Sitter as a new friend of Nikki and Brandon. And now he’s getting his own chance at book stardom in his very own middle-grade series.
After being home-schooled by his grandmother for his entire life, Max is finally getting his wish of attending public middle school. But maybe going to South Ridge Middle School isn’t all Max has built it up to be. He certainly didn’t anticipate the Thomas Silver Problem. This ruthless bully makes Max’s school life miserable, continually stuffing the new kid into his locker. Max wishes he were as powerful as the comic-book superheroes he reads about—and even draws—so he could take down Tommy. Unfortunately, though, Max’s only superpower is his ability to smell pizza from a block away, which won’t exactly save the day. But maybe this kid is more of a hero than he thinks. Does he have what it takes to make it in middle school?

Fans of the Dork Diaries books will recognize and appreciate Russell’s signature black-and-white comic illustrations and notebook-style narrative told in Max’s distinct voice. And having a boy protagonist will likely be a welcome addition to Russell’s readers. Max is funny and likable—like Nikki Maxwell from Dork Diaries—and is someone kids will want to root for as he experiences the ups and downs of tween life.
The second book in The Misadventures of Max Crumbly series is slated for a spring 2017 release.
And if you need something to hold you over until the first book comes out in June, the Dork Diaries series has plenty of material to keep you busy reading—or re-reading! Check out the 10 regular books in the series, starring Nikki and her dork friends and CCP (Cute Cool and Popular) foes:

• Tales from a Not-So-Fabulous Life,
• Tales from a Not-So-Popular Party Girl,
• Tales from a Not-So-Talented Pop Star,
• Tales from a Not-So-Talented Ice Princess,
• Tales from a Not-So-Smart Miss Know-It-All,
• Tales from a Not-So-Happy Heartbreaker,
• Tales from a Not-So-Glam TV Star, Tales from a Not-So-Happily Ever After,
• Tales from a Not-So-Dorky Drama Queen, and
• Tales from a Not-So-Perfect Pet Sitter.

Plus, there are two books that might even get you started on your own diary—Dork Diaries 3 1/2: How to Dork Your Diary and Dork Diaries: OMG! All About Me Diary!, a guided journal just for you with questions for every day of the year.
Finally, fans can stay glued to Russell’s website, where she’s known to post sneak peeks of upcoming work for her super-fans.
Are you excited to read the new series The Misadventures of Max Crumbly?