The Kids in Mrs. Z's Class: Sebastian Metzger Solves a Sticky Situation

De: Kyle Lukoff, Kat Fajardo - illustrator, Kate Messner - introduction

Meet the kids in Mrs. Z’s wacky and wonderful third grade class! Sebastian Metzger is overjoyed when he checks out a brand-new book on octopodes from the school library, but everything goes awry when the book gets ruined.

Sebastian Metzger loves learning new things, especially about animals. He's actually been experiencing many new things recently: third grade marks his first year living as a boy. Some things don't change, though. His imaginary friend, Jimothy the chipmunk, is always by his side!

When Sebastian spots a new book in the school library on octopodes, he just knows he has to check it out. The only problem is: this book is so new, the librarian hasn't even prepared it to be checked out! Sebastian promises to take great care of it, and the librarian makes an exception.

But when his little sister accidentally ruins the book, Sebastian is devastated. Will Sebastian find a way to save the library book and redeem himself?

Both sweetly poignant and laugh-out-loud funny, with black-and-white illustrations by Pura Belpré Honor artist Kat Fajardo, Sebastian’s story invites listeners into Mrs. Z’s class where friendship and fun rule the school, from award-winning author Kyle Lukoff.

Sebastian Metzger:
Perfect for!
My Weirdtastic School fans
Reluctant readers
Classroom
Andrew Clements fans

©2026 Kyle Lukoff (P)2026 Little, Brown Young Readers