Billy Broccoli (yep, that's really his name) and his personal ghost, Hoover Porterhouse, are back. Billy is still socially awkward and in need of major assistance from the infinitely cooler Hoove. And Hoove is having a hard time passing the ghost test given to him by the "higher ups." Until he can prove his worth by helping a mortal in a selfless way, he is stuck in Billy's house forever. He has another chance to help Billy when the school Speak Out Challenge comes up. Students have to speak in front of the whole school about their most impressive talent. What?? Billy is fairly certain he has no talent whatsoever, and even if he did, he's 100% sure he could never talk about it in front of the whole school without doing something really embarrassing.

Mind if I Read Your Mind is the fun and wholesome follow up to Zero to Hero. Hoove helps Billy come up with an idea for his presentation, which goes so well it helps him make two new friends at his new school. Only problem? It's based on a ghost trick, which ultimately gives Billy pause. There are nice lessons about jealousy and forgiveness in friendship, sticking with a task and learning not to take shortcuts, and finally in the value of honesty--even when it might jeopardize a new friendship. Even though the main characters are middle schoolers, this book will appeal to somewhat younger elementary-aged kids. Billy is shy and awkward, and Hoover is swashbuckling, a bit selfish, and super cool. Together, they make a great pair, and tell a funny story. They are both baseball fans, and while there are no playing sequences, fans of baseball lore will enjoy their discussions and the wisdom of a surprise character from baseball history who pops up to advise Hoover.

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