Author John Grisham -- my, he looks serious...

With about a zillion films based on his books (okay, fine, there are eight), you’ve probably heard of John Grisham, the author of about a zillion and one books for adults (actual number: 23). But you probably haven’t seen any of his books in the children’s section of your local bookstore or library — until now!

That’s right, John Grisham just announced that he has a series for kids in the works. And since most of his adult books are legal thrillers, it shouldn’t surprise you to learn that the first book in the new series will be titled Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer. The 13-year-old main character is apparently the son of two lawyers in a small Southern town.

I myself am the child of two lawyers, and I can tell you, that does not make me an expert on anything except how to argue with my parents. But if this series turns out to be about a kid fighting with his mom and dad, I will not be a happy reader! I assume we have some actual courtroom adventures from Theodore to look forward to. Guess we’ll find out when the book comes out in May…

In the meantime, here are a couple other books about kids who take on roles normally reserved for adults — and totally rock them(!):

• The Kid Who Ran for President by Dan Gutman
• The School Story by Andrew Clements

And check out these offerings by authors who are famous for their books for adults:

• Summerland by Michael Chabon
• Hoot by Carl Hiaasen

— Karen