Whatshisface

Imagine moving so often that you feel practically invisible. That’s Cooper Vega’s life, and his latest move to the town of Stratford has left him feeling more like “whatshisface” than ever. But things take a spooky twist when Cooper’s new high-tech phone starts acting up. First, there’s a strange glare on the screen. Then, that glare turns into the image of… a person?

Meet Roderick, a boy from the 17th century who claims to have a tangled history with none other than William Shakespeare himself. Trapped in Cooper’s phone, Roderick has some serious unfinished business—and he’s roped Cooper into helping him make things right. Suddenly, Cooper’s not just the new kid—he’s got a ghostly sidekick with old-school advice on how to survive middle school (which may or may not work in the 21st century). From unexpected friendships to time-traveling shenanigans, this laugh-out-loud ghost story will have readers cheering as Cooper goes from “whatshisface” to an unforgettable hero.

An Amazon 2024 Teachers’ Pick.

Perfect For…

Whatshisface is ideal for kids who love a good ghostly adventure with a generous side of humor. It’s perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy stories blending mystery, history, and plenty of laughs. If you’re someone who loves cheering for the underdog and seeing an “invisible” kid take the spotlight—with a quirky ghost from Shakespeare’s time—this book is for you!

If You Liked…

Fans of Gordon Korman’s Restart will feel right at home with Whatshisface, especially with its themes of identity and friendship. Readers who enjoyed Ghost by Jason Reynolds for its underdog protagonist or The Terrible Two series by Mac Barnett and Jory John, mixing humor with clever twists, will love this story. If you’re a fan of The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman or The Peculiar Incident on Shady Street by Lindsay Currie, the supernatural fun in Whatshisface will keep you turning the pages.

Whether you’re into ghost stories, historical quirks, or just love a good laugh, Whatshisface offers an unforgettable journey for readers ready to see what happens when a kid with no friends finds the ultimate paranormal BFF.