I Funny: A Middle School Story

I Funny is a middle-grade, realistic fiction graphic novel written by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein and illustrated by Laura Park. It is the first in the six-book I Funny series, which explores the life of Jamie, a middle school student who has a passion for exploring the world of comedy and making people laugh. Jamie uses a wheelchair but does not want his physical disability to define his life. As he overcomes various hardships and embraces his natural talents, he gains a new sense of confidence and belonging.

James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein are both well-established authors who have penned numerous New York Times bestsellers. Together, they have collaborated on over 30 children’s books comprising several distinct series.I Funny was originally published in 2012 and was awarded the 2014 Maryland Black-Eyed Susan Book Award.

This guide refers to the 2015 Little, Brown and Company paperback edition.

Content Warning: Both the source text and this guide contain descriptions of bullying and ableism, along with violence and slurs directed toward people with disabilities.

Plot Summary

Protagonist and narrator Jamie Grimm is on stage at "The Planet's Funniest Kid Comic Contest" (1) in Long Island, New York.