Millionaires for the Month by Stacy McAnulty
Published by Random House Books for Young Readers on September 1, 2020
ISBN: 0593175255
Pages: 336
Genres: Humor, Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

This is an entertaining read for readers in grades 4-8.  In their middle school, Felix and Benji have never considered themselves friends.  Felix’s family struggles financially and he follows the rules.  Benji, an only child, loves to bend the rules and money isn’t a concern is his life.  On the day of a field trip, they find a tech billionaire’s wallet and, against Felix’s initial wishes, use $20 of the contents before returning it; this changes their relationship, their thoughts on money, and gives them a lesson on what is valuable.  Laura Friendly, the billionaire, gives them a choice of a $20,000 scholarship each or $5,368,709.12 that together they have to completely spend in 30 days under very strict rules.  They choose the spending spree.  The rules stipulate they can’t purchase houses, investments, gifts, or donate it away.  The biggest rule is that they can’t tell ANYONE.  What follows is a whirlwind of expensive rentals, food purchases and stuff, lots of stuff.  They find themselves juggling time for school, basketball tryouts, and serious item purchasing.  What starts as a fun game becomes tense and quite serious.  Felix finances a wedding for his sister and her girlfriend at one point.  Along the way, the boys’ relationship is tested, their families are upended, a dog transcends all the monetary craziness, and some valuable lessons are gleaned along the way.  All the mathematical computations are included throughout by an illustration showing their daily bank account and the back matter includes charts showing how doubling a penny every day can add up.

Reviewed by Sheila Dube, Youth Services Librarian