Whatshisface by Gordon Korman
Published by Scholastic Press on May 8th 2018
ISBN: 133820016X
Pages: 240
Goodreads

While trying to adjust after a move to the town of Stratford, Cooper Vega discovers a sixteenth century ghost living in his new phone.  The ghost, Roddy, causes multiple problems with Cooper’s phone and claims to be the original author of Romeo and Juliet.  Cooper eventually becomes friends with Roddy and they help each other adjust to their new situations.  Roddy encourages Cooper to be more assertive with bullies and his love interest. Cooper strives to help Roddy find and accomplish his purpose as a ghost.  All of this while the seventh grade is preparing to perform Romeo and Juliet for Mr. Wolfson, a Shakespearean billionaire and enthusiast.  Multiple details about Shakespeare and the sixteenth century are scattered throughout the text.  Teachers will appreciate the prolific use of Shakespearean language and readers may find Roddy’s sixteenth century way of speaking and phrasing (despite being in the twenty-first century) humorous.  Parents may not approve of the lack of consequences Roddy and Cooper receive after making poor decisions (purposefully causing a bike crash, trespassing, stealing), but appreciate the fact that Cooper does have a conscience.   Whatshisface addresses bullying, young love, trying to fit in, and striving to be noticed.  Readers in grades 4-7 will enjoy the highs and lows Cooper experiences on his journey from “whatshisface” to Cooper Vega while being introduced to the world of Shakespeare.  

Reviewed by Heather Hale, Easton School System, Easton