The Fourth Stall

Mac is a sixth-grade problem solver who runs his business from the fourth stall of the East Wing boys' bathroom at his school. With his best friend and business partner Vince, he helps fellow students with their troubles - for a price. Their operation faces its biggest challenge when Fred, a third-grader, asks for protection from a legendary high school crime boss named Staples. Mac and Vince must navigate increasingly dangerous situations as they work to help Fred while keeping their own business intact. The story combines elements of noir detective fiction with middle school drama as Mac tries to maintain his reputation as someone who can fix any problem. His investigation leads him through a complex web of school gambling rings, bullies, and competing interests. The Fourth Stall examines themes of friendship, loyalty and the gray areas between right and wrong in the unique social ecosystem of middle school. The novel balances humor with genuine stakes as it explores how young people develop their own moral codes.

Readers compare the story to The Godfather set in middle school, with many noting its appeal to reluctant young readers, especially boys. Parents and teachers report success using it to engage students who don't typically enjoy reading. Readers appreciated: - The authentic voice and humor - Fast-paced plot that keeps kids engaged - Complex friendship dynamics - Realistic school setting and situations Common criticisms: - Some found the premise unrealistic - References that may confuse younger readers - Morally ambiguous situations that concerned some parents Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (7,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (280+ ratings) Common Sense Media: 4/5 Notable reader comments: "Perfect for fans of Gordon Korman" - Goodreads reviewer "My son couldn't put it down" - Amazon parent review "The dialogue rings true to how kids really talk" - School librarian review

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Small Steps by Louis Sachar A teenager uses his street smarts and hustle mentality to build a concert ticket scalping operation.

Schooled by Gordon Korman A homeschooled boy enters public middle school and transforms the social hierarchy through unconventional problem-solving methods.

The Big Game by Tim Green A middle school football player uncovers corruption and runs an underground gambling operation at his school.

Ungifted by Gordon Korman A troublemaker accidentally lands in his school's gifted program and builds a network of favors and deals to maintain his position.

📚 The book's main character, Mac, runs his "business" from a disused bathroom stall, mirroring the concept of a mobster's back-room office from classic crime films. 🏆 The Fourth Stall was Chris Rylander's debut novel, and it earned him nominations for several state reading awards, including the Pacific Northwest Library Association Young Reader's Choice Award. 🎬 The story's structure and themes pay homage to The Godfather, with sixth-grader Mac serving as a schoolyard version of Don Corleone, complete with his own network of informants and problem solvers. 🏫 The novel sparked two sequels—The Fourth Stall Part II and The Fourth Stall Part III—forming a complete middle-grade trilogy about elementary school organized crime. 🎮 Author Chris Rylander worked as a video game reviewer before becoming a children's book author, which influenced his writing style and ability to connect with young readers.