Please Return To: Norbert M. Finkelstein
-a new perspective on the diary novel for middle grade readers (ages 8-12) who loved Diary of a Wimpy Kid and The Dork Diaries-
Norbert M. Finkelstein is your average middle school English teacher…who moonlights as a professional wrestler. He’d like to keep this part of his life secret and endure the daily shenanigans of students like Jimmy Baker, a world-class bubblegum flinger, and perform as personal gopher for colleagues like Coach Seam and Principal Rubrick. It’s easier that way. Out of the spotlight and under the radar: the story of Norbie’s life.
When he tries to reboot his pro wrestling career and win enough prize money to send his dear mom on her dream vacation, Norbie’s past rises up to haunt him. Between Sensei Clement’s brutal training sessions and the onslaught of threats from a shifty fight promoter named Joey Happenstance, it’ll be a miracle if Norbie survives.
“No matter how long it’s been since you were in middle school, Morelli picks you up in a time machine and takes you back there. And once you arrive, it will be impossible not to recognize yourself and countless others to some degree or another. Funny, heartwarming, and real. Your kids are going to love it!”
—R.J. Fox, author of Tales from the Dork Side
“Frank Morelli’s newest novel, Please Return To, introduces us to Norbert M. Finkelstein, the middle school teacher and wrestling coach with a heart of gold and a secret identity. Readers can’t help but fall in love with big-hearted Norbie’s indelibly poignant and hilarious voice.”
–Lisa Williams Kline, author of One Week of You
