A.J. and his fellow third-graders from Ella Mentry School, including new student Alexia, go on a field trip to the zoo, where they meet a very strange zookeeper.

On Career Day at Ella Mentry School, local reporter Mrs. Lilly helps A.J. and his fellow third-graders start a school newspaper, but their efforts have unexpected, and terrible, consequences.

When Mr. Granite falls ill, A.J. and the gang endure a wacky week with a perpetually cheerful substitute teacher who wears a clown costume, uses hand puppets to talk, and uses magic tricks to saw students in half and make them disappear.

"A. J. and his teachers are in for a wacky time when a hot new reality show starts filming at Ella Mentry School"--

Ella Mentry is having a fund-raiser, and guess who's in charge? Alexia's mom, Ms. Sue! The school's selling everything from popcorn to goldfish to raise money for a new playground. But when happens when Ms. Sue crosses the line? Someone's going to end up in the big house! -- Back cover.

"A. J. and the Ella Mentry School gang learn some unusual self-defense moves from a wacky teacher who thinks he's an action hero"--Provided by the publisher.

"It's time for the annual Ella Mentry School talent show, and this year Principal Klutz has hired a wacky professional, Mrs. Lane, to help the kids with their talents"--

Ella Mentary School is having a science fair! Guest scientist Dr. Snow has arrived to help A.J. and his friends conduct their own cool experiments. But what is "the snowman" really planning? And what does STEM even stand for anyway?

"At-ten-tion! The Beaver Scouts are looking for new recruits. And A. J. and his friends are the first to sign up. They can't wait to build campfires and win cool badges. But scout leader Miss Blake would rather prepare them for bear attacks and falling boulders. When they head outdoors, will they be prepared for a real emergency?" -- Back cover.

"A.J. and his friends are forming a band! At least, they are taking band classes. Their new teacher, Mrs. Bacon, can teach any instrument, from the kazoo to the tuba. But can she get A.J.'s class to play well enough during their recital to impress cranky Dr. Carbles? Or will their concert be a musical mess?" -- Cover.