Making Plans for Nigel Binty

By Shawn K. Stout

★ “Nigel and Milo were best friends until sixth grade rolled around and Milo became one of the cool kids. Now Nigel is facing middle school alone and dealing with his parents’ divorce, neither of which is helping his grades or his anxiety. Midyear, Glory Bea transfers to Nigel’s school after being forced to leave her home when her father, a local reverend, was sent to jail for stealing money from the church. Told largely in the third person from Nigel’s perspective, the book is interspersed with first-person chapters from Glory Bea’s point of view as she writes to her father (referred only to as “Rev”) and deals with her sudden loss and subsequent relocation. When Nigel makes a mistake that winds up hurting Glory Bea badly, he determines to fix everything once and for all. Though Stout’s novel deals with some heavy themes, it possesses great humor and heart, making it a joy to read. Glory Bea’s sections are a particular delight, but readers will be rooting for both characters and their potential friendship. Upper-elementary and early–middle school readers who enjoy inspiring stories like Jacqueline Woodson’s Harbor Me (2018) and Chris Baron’s The Magical Imperfect (2021) should make plans to meet Nigel Binty and Glory Bea.”—Booklist, starred review

★ “Stout’s latest is a genuine, believable look at the way a single connection can be redemptive, even in what can feel like the worst time of one’s life.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“Nigel and Glory Bea are portrayed as nuanced, believable characters—kids who don’t have all the answers, but who are trying their best. Their journey is heartwarming and relatable. . . . A charming coming-of-age story featuring realistically portrayed children who are ­facing life’s challenges.”―School Library Journal

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection