Bell Kirby is an expert at systems, whether he’s designing the world’s most elaborate habitat for his pet chinchilla, recreating da Vinci’s greatest inventions in his garage, or avoiding Parker Hellickson, the most diabolical bully Village Green Elementary has ever seen.

Bell has spent two long years devising a finely tuned system that keeps him out of Parker’s way. Sure, it means that Bell can’t get a drink when he wants to or play with his best friend on the playground, but at least he’s safe.

Until Daelynn Gower touches down in his classroom like a tornado.

It’s bad enough that the new girl disrupts Bell’s secret system, but when Daelynn becomes the bully’s new target, Bell is forced to make an impossible decision: finally stand up to Parker-or join him.