About the Author

Paul Acampora has written three novels and people have said nice things about each of them. Kids, parents, and critics praise his work for its laugh-out-loud humor, rollicking dialogue, and heartfelt characters. He is the author of Defining Dulcie, which School Library Journal called "an inextricable mix of sadness and humor, sorrow and hope"; and Rachel Spinelli Punched Me in the Face, which Kirkus Reviews described as "an outstanding, humane coming-of-age tale of loss, yearning and forgiveness," and I Kill the Mockingbird which, according to Booklist, is "[a] well-written, resolutely cheerful offering [which] celebrates books, reading, and life." You can find Paul online at paulacampora.com.

Reviews

Praise for Confusion is Nothing New: "The dry wit of Acampora's characters... and the love of '80s music permeating every scene give this story its rhythm and soul." -- Publishers Weekly"The idiosyncratic characters bring the story to life and the irrepressible humor... is laugh-aloud funny. A satisfying novel of loss, change, and renewal." -- Booklist"A multilayered and thought-provoking read that doesn't take itself too seriously." -- Horn Book Review"Its warmth and wackiness will appeal to even the most reluctant readers... a delightful addition to middle school libraries." -- School Library ConnectionPraise for How to Avoid Extinction: "Acampora tucks laughter, tears, light doses of life wisdom, impressive fossils, and any number of appealing characters into this amiable odyssey." -- Booklist"The transformative power of the American road trip is taken to new heights." -- School Library Journal"Some of the chapter headings are funny enough to convince people to read the book all by themselves." -- Kirkus Reviews"Love plus laughter is pretty much an extinction-proof formula for a middle-grade book, and jokesters, dinosaur fans, and those looking for a satisfyingly hopeful family drama will find plenty to dig up and enjoy here." -- Bulletin for the Center of Children's Books