Ezra Exposed

Fifth grader Ezra Miller, who uses humor to connect with others, learns the pitfalls of social media and technology in Feldman’s topical debut. Ezra often feels invisible within his family and friend group, but when he receives a smartphone for his 10th birthday—as one of the last in his grade to get one—he believes that his newfound feeling of coolness will thrust him into the spotlight. His initial excitement over connecting with others gives way to social media popularity after Ezra posts a picture of a chicken nugget that looks like a butt. Emboldened by this sudden notoriety, Ezra starts posting photos of various other objects, each resembling a tush. But his pursuit of fame starts to impact his relationships with family and friends, and when a photo Ezra took of his own backside begins circulating, a visit from a detective foreshadows legal consequences. The novel’s tone abruptly pivots between slapstick humor and strident moralizing, making for an uneven read. Nevertheless, Ezra’s droll first-person narration, desire to be liked, and evolving maturity deftly render this a humorous and self-reflective tale. Characters read as white. Ages 8–12. (Nov.)