If Austin picked a color to describe his life, it would be tumbleweed brown. Austin doesn't like standing out. He's always the new kid, and there's no hiding his size. Plus, Austin has a secret: he struggles to read.

Then Austin meets Bertie, who is razzmatazz. Everything about Bertie is bursting! But the best part of his newest school is the Safety Squad, with their laser lemon vests. Their easy confidence and leadership stand out in the coolest way. Even when things are not so vibrant and life at home makes Austin feel pacific blue, for the first time, he wants to leave a mark. And the more Austin speaks up, the more he finds he may not be that different after all.

Hand this book to readers who have enjoyed Gary D. Schmidt's Okay for Now or ­Jacqueline Woodson's Harbor Me. -Publishers Weekly