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

McAnulty knows how to spin an engaging story! This middle grade novel pairs up quiet, rule-following Felix with brash, daredevil Benji, two kids who are not friends and have nothing to talk about until they find the wallet of a billionaire. Benji borrows $20 from the wallet, which he reasons is like a penny to a billionaire, but that billionaire Laura Friendly counters that a penny can be powerful, especially when doubled every day. In fact, this would add up to $5,368,709.12 and so she challenges the boys to spend that amount. In one month. And they can’t give it away and they can only spend it on themselves and they can’t tell anyone about the challenge. McAnulty balances the action with situations that offer chances for Benji and Felix to think about money in a new way and to grow as people. The book is touches on philosophy, privilege, and friendship. Recommend for grades 4 -7.

Reviewed by Jill O’Connor, Merrill Memorial Library, Yarmouth