Mice don't taste like chicken

the long version

Sixth grade can be a zoo. Drew Harrington hopes so. He and his best friend, Jackson Harris, can't wait to join Bridgeton Elementary's legendary teacher, Mr. Cross, in a classroom inhabited by cantankerous lizards, an elusive iguana, and a 13-foot Burmese python named Prometheus. Drew begins the year evading perpetual grade-schooler and bully Joe Riaz. Joe's pursuit results in a broken arm-courtesy of Drew's best friend, Jackson Harris and departure from Bridgeton Elementary. Days later, Ryan, a military child, arrives. Jackson gravitates to Ryan, but Drew is suspicious. Ryan and Jackson humiliate social outcast, "Tinkle" Troy Schwartz in the bathroom, furthering Drew's suspicions. Drew vindicates Troy to Principal Major, and a betrayed Jackson ends their friendship. Will this year be as predictable as the past five? Or will this be the year that makes Drew realize mice don't taste like chicken?