I Even Funnier: A Middle School Story (I Funny, 2)



Last updated Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Author: James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein
Illustrator: Laura Park
Date of Publication: 2013
ISBN: 9780316206976
Grade Level: 5th    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Sep. 2024

Synopsis: In this follow up to I Funny, middle schooler Jamie Grimm has big dreams of being the best stand-up comic in the world-and he won't let the fact that he's wheelchair-bound stand in his way. After winning the New York state finals in the Planet's Funniest Kid Comic Contest, Jamie's off to Boston to compete in the national semi-finals.

Once again Jamie gets loyal support from an appealing supporting cast led by girl friend (two words at the beginning, one word by the end) Gilda.

Note to readers:
•  This is book 2 in the series. The first book was a 5 th grade selection for the August 2023 Book Club. If the kids want to read it, it will be in their library.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Jamie Grimm wants to be a comic. It that something you might want to do? What would you like to do? Be a professional ball player, an actor, a teacher, etc.

Vocabulary
•  comic: a person who tires to create laughter or amusement through an act or routine.
•  gruel: a thin porridge or oatmeal like dish.
•  balmy: mile weather or air temperature with some humidity.
•  diner: a small, informal, inexpensive restaurant.

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Does your school have an anti-bully program? What does it involve? Do you think it works?
•  Do have a favorite comic/comedian you like to watch? Who is it? Why to like to watch them? Have you ever been to a live performance?
•  Jamie’s participation in the contest requires that he perform in front of a large group of mostly strangers. How do you feel about speaking in public? Is it something you think you would like to do?
•  Have you ever had to speak in front of a group like reading a poem or story in front of you class? How did you do?

Craft ideas:
•  Draw a picture of your favorite TV/movie star. It could be a comic or someone who plays a superhero or anything else.
•  Or, make up you own character and draw a picture.
•  As a group, share some jokes. Knock Knock jokes, dad jokes, riddles.

Special activities:
•  Do the word search.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!