Books

Maple’s Theory of Fun

A USA Today Bestseller!

 

Perfect for fans of Dork Diaries and Emmie & Friends, this first book in a diary-style illustrated middle grade series follows an anxious, science-minded sixth grader determined to become fun and win back her friend.

Sixth grade has been pretty disaster-free for aspiring astronaut Maple McNutt—which is impressive, given the number of worries and possible catastrophes that run through her head every day. (So far, Earth hasn’t been devoured by a black hole and a cockroach hasn’t crawled out of her toothpaste mid-squeeze. Phew!) But then her best friend of seven-point-two years, Sunny Gwon, accuses her of being unfun and starts hanging around with a new group of friends.

In order to win Sunny back, Maple decides to undergo a serious scientific transformation to become fun by 1. Doing extensive research, 2. Applying research to self, and and 3. Repeating until fun. It’s risky and groundbreaking research, but Maple has no choice if she wants to save her friendship.

Reviews:

“The chatty tone, inviting layout, and humorous voice will draw readers in and keep them entertained... Likely to inspire fun and creativity.”

– Kirkus Reviews 

"Via Maple’s journal—rendered in prose bursting with personality—debut creators McMillan and Prillaman tenderly balance Maple’s fears of losing a friend with outrageously silly scenes, inventions, and dialogue. Simple b&w cartoon-style illustrations permeate a heartfelt series opener that accentuates the joy of experimentation as experienced by winning, memorable characters."

– Publishers Weekly 

 

Maple Book #2

Coming Spring 2025