How To Get Suspended
and Influence People
by Adam Selzer
HOW TO GET SUSPENDED AND INFLUENCE PEOPLE by Adam Selzer
Category: Contemporary
Age Recommendation: Grades 9+
Release Date: 2/13/07
Publisher: Delacorte
Reviewed by: Jeremey
Rating: 4 Stars
Eighth-grader Leon has a project in his class for gifted and talented students. Each student must make his or her own
educational video to show the lower classmen. What subject do you think a hormonal teenager will choose? Of course,
sex education.
Despite his wanting to see pictures of naked people, Leon wants to show the kids that puberty is normal. Hair grows,
things change, you have certain urges, and everything’s like a big explosion. With his friend, Anna, Leon creates an avant-
garde sex ed. video, which is informative, but kind of weird.
Before showing it to the lower classmen, Leon first debuts it to his teacher, Mrs. Smollet, who finds it immoral and
disgusting. Naturally, she goes to the principal, who suspends Leon. During his suspension, the townspeople debate over
Leon’s sex education video. Is it too graphic for sixth and seventh graders? After this huge debate will Leon be allowed to
show his video and come back to school, or be expelled forever?
Adam Selzer creates a funny and enjoyable book. The characters are well-written and defined. You’ll enjoy this book and
laugh throughout; this is a book you don’t want to miss!
