If Your 8-12-year-old loved The Smartest Kid in the Universe, they might also like…

• Big Nate

• Timmy Failure

• The Terrible Two

These stories combine humour, school life, and quirky protagonists, following kids who navigate everyday challenges with creativity, confidence, and plenty of laugh-out-loud misadventures.

Here’s what they’re about

The Smartest Kid in the Universe

Jake McQuade is an average kid who prefers video games and snacks to schoolwork — until a science experiment accidentally turns him into the smartest kid in the universe. Suddenly, Jake knows everything, from complex maths to obscure facts, and his life changes overnight. But being the smartest isn’t as easy as it sounds. As expectations grow and pressure builds, Jake must figure out what truly matters. Funny and fast-paced, this story explores identity, friendship, and the idea that being yourself is more important than being perfect.

Big Nate: In a Class by Himself

Nate Wright is convinced he’s destined for greatness — even if his teachers and classmates aren’t so sure. Through a mix of comic strips and short chapters, Nate navigates school life, friendships, and constant misadventures, often driven by his own overconfidence. When a fortune cookie predicts big things for Nate, he sets out to prove it — with chaotic and hilarious results. Packed with humour, doodles, and relatable school moments, Big Nate is perfect for readers who enjoy fast, funny stories about everyday life.

Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made

Timmy Failure runs his own detective agency — at least, that’s what he believes. Armed with absolute confidence and a polar bear partner named Total, Timmy tackles cases with questionable logic and hilarious misunderstandings. As he narrates his own “successes,” readers quickly see the gap between Timmy’s perception and reality. With dry humour, simple illustrations, and a unique voice, this story is both funny and endearing. It’s ideal for readers who enjoy quirky characters and comedy built on clever misunderstandings.

The Terrible Two

Miles Murphy prides himself on being the best prankster around — until he moves to a new town and discovers someone else already holds that title. Reluctantly teaming up with his rival, the two boys create increasingly elaborate pranks that soon capture the whole school’s attention. As their partnership grows, so does their friendship and understanding of what really matters. Funny, clever, and full of inventive tricks, The Terrible Two is a celebration of creativity, teamwork, and the joy of harmless mischief.