Guide Note

How to Eat Fried Worms is a children's books written by Thomas Rockwell.

Fast Facts

1. Author: Thomas Rockwell
2. Genre: Childrens Books
3. Publication Date: 1973
4. Publisher: Yearling
5. Pages: 128
6. ISBN 978-0440445456
7. Awards/Distinctions: Mark Twain Award, California Young Reader Medal, Sequoyah Award
8. Adaptations: Movie
9. Is one of the most-banned books in the United States
10. Author is the son of Norman Rockwell
11. Sequel: How to Fight a Girl

The story revolves around a young boy named Billy who takes a bet to eat 15 worms in 15 days in order to earn enough money for a motorbike. His friends cook the worms in different ways each day and taunt him with chants and singing while they do it. After his friends Alan and Joe realize that they just might have to make good on their bet, they do everything they can to thwart Billy's efforts - including locking him in a closet.

• "There's one thing to be said for How To Eat Fried Worms -- it gets kids to read. Its disgusting premise -- a bet about eating worms -- is so in tune with middle-grade humor that even kids who say they hate books will read it and recommend it to their friends." - Common Sense Media Review

• "This was a very comical book that any boy or tomboy should enjoy. It would be a great tool in opening the door to discussing betting, even small bets, and the risks that it involves. It also deals with friends doing things that upset each other, and how to get past the issues that arise and continue being friends after the incident is over." - Elizabeth Fresse, Barnes & Noble Editorial Review