BLOGS > OCTOBER 1, 2025
BY FOLLETT CONTENT
From The Bad Seed to The Smart Cookie, Jory John and Pete Oswald’s Food Group series has become a staple in classrooms and libraries across the country. With its clever characters, laugh-out-loud humor, heartfelt lessons, and captivating illustrations, the series has helped educators spark meaningful conversations about emotions, behavior, and self-worth – all wrapped in deliciously engaging storytelling.
Now, the eighth installment, The Humble Pie, is ready to serve up another helping of wisdom and wit. And if your students have devoured the previous titles, this one is sure to be a hit.
Here’s why the Food Group series continues to resonate – and why The Humble Pie book deserves a spot on your shelf.
In The Humble Pie, readers meet a character who’s used to staying in the background. He’s modest, quiet, and happy to let others shine. But when he’s paired with his best friend, Jake the Cake, for a school project, he begins to realize that sometimes, stepping into the spotlight is exactly what’s needed. This story is a celebration of self-expression and confidence – perfect for students navigating group work, presentations, or simply finding their voice in the classroom. Like its predecessors, The Humble Pie blends humor with heart, making it a powerful tool for educators looking to support student growth in a fun and relatable way.
Leadership isn’t always easy – especially when you’re trying to be the best at everything. In The Big Cheese, readers explore themes of teamwork, humility, and what it really means to lead, making it a great conversation starter for classroom dynamics and student council discussions and perfect as a classroom read-aloud.
This tale of forgiveness and emotional growth follows a grape who holds grudges – until a moment of reflection helps them let go and grow. It’s a powerful way to introduce conversations about empathy, conflict resolution, and second chances.
Set in a school, this story celebrates creativity and individuality. The Smart Cookie learns that intelligence comes in many forms, making it a perfect read for encouraging students to embrace their unique strengths.
Let us help you serve up the right mix – reach out today for help getting started.
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