> Skip to content

Article  •  12 May 2016

 

Meet Middle School hero, Rafe

Say hi to Rafe Khatchadorian – James Patterson’s Middle School series hero.

You may know James Patterson as one of the biggest-selling crime and thriller writers of all time. What you may not know is that he also writes hilarious, hugely popular children’s books.

If you haven’t already met him it’s our pleasure to introduce you to Rafe Khatchadorian, the comically tragic hero of the Middle School series.

‘Hi I’m Rafe Khatchadorian, and if you already know me, then you know I do things a little differently than most people. I like to break the rules. No, I love to break rules. Especially dumb ones, like no talking in the hallways at my school and only being allowed to use the bathroom two times a day, no matter what.'

With his ‘pukey sister’ Georgia, school bully ‘Miller the Killer’ and the diabolical teacher he names the ‘Dragon Lady’ constantly on his case, it’s no wonder Rafe spends plenty of time in his favourite subject  . . .  after school detention.

But on a serious note:

The first book in the series, Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life, follows eleven-year-old Rafe as he navigates his way through Grade 6, while also juggling a problematic home life. Told from the riotously honest perspective of Rafe, readers really get into the headspace of a young boy who is just trying to fit in and be accepted by others.

It’s the characters in Middle School that really give this series its heart. As well as Rafe, you’ll meet other likeable and relatable kids such as his sister Georgia Khatchadorian, who is just trying to live up to her big brother’s reputation, and Jamie Grimm, a middle schooler with a mission to become the world’s greatest stand-up comedian.

But don’t just take our word for it, have a read and find out for yourself!

Feature Title

Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life

A heartwarming and uproariously funny illustrated novel from bestselling author James Patterson. Now a major Hollywood movie!

Read more

More features

See all
Article
The Migrants Author Talks

Join Christopher de Hamel as he travels across New Zealand for a series of author talks, exploring the connections between his South Island childhood, medieval manuscripts and 19th century Aotearoa.

Article
Why readers LOVE Lottie Brooks: Real Reader Reviews

In their own words, younger readers review their favourite Lottie Brooks books and why they love the series!

Article
Your guide to Matt Dinniman's Dungeon Crawler Carl series

Not sure where to start with the Dungeon Crawler Carl series? Find out which to read first, and learn a little bit about each book.

Article
15 of the best vampire books to add to your TBR

Discover some of the best vampire books – from paranormal to gothic and beyond.

Article
10 debut authors share where the ideas for their first novels came from

Learn about the inspiration behind debut authors’ first novels.

Article
Jacinda Ardern to appear at NZ writers festival events

Penguin Random House is delighted to announce that Jacinda Ardern will be doing three book events in New Zealand in April and May.

Article
Books for reluctant readers post-Percy Jackson

They've closed the final Percy Jackson book. Now what?

Article
The best graphic novels for reluctant readers

Graphic novels are the perfect way to get disinterested readers to pick up a book.

Article
Books to keep older kids entertained this Easter long weekend

Easter is coming up, and once the novelty of chocolate wears off, older kids still need something to sink their teeth into.

Article
NZ Booklovers Awards Shortlist 2026

See the Penguin Random House NZ books shortlisted for the 2026 NZ Booklovers Awards

Article
26 best books for your book club in 2026

If it's your turn to choose the title for your book club, we've got you covered.

Article
The best Easter activities with Bluey!

Easter fun with Bluey! Whether you're a fan of quizzes, crafts, colouring, or biscuit decorating, we've rounded up the best Easter activities so you and your little ones can celebrate Easter with their favourite, Bluey!

Looking for more articles?

See all articles