Gordon Korman's novel No Coins, Please first hit shelves in 1984. Korman was already a popular author with young readers, known for his witty, fast-paced stories. He actually wrote his first book, This Can't Be Happening at Macdonald Hall!, for a 7th-grade English project when he was just 12 years old. By the time No Coins, Please was published, he had perfected his signature style of chaotic comedy and relatable characters.

The book is a classic middle-grade comedy. It’s aimed at readers roughly between the ages of 10 and 14, an audience that appreciates hilarious situations and clever protagonists who outsmart the adults around them. Korman's writing is light and accessible, making it a perfect read for kids who enjoy stories packed with action and humor.

The novel follows 11-year-old Artie Geller, a boy with a single-minded obsession: making money. He and his camp group, the 'Juniper Jents,' embark on a cross-country trip from their camp in Ontario, Canada, all the way to the West Coast of the United States. The trip is supposed to be about sightseeing and bonding, but for Artie, it’s one giant business opportunity.

Every new city and tourist trap becomes the backdrop for one of Artie's get-rich-quick schemes. This drives his camp counselors, Rob and Dennis, absolutely bonkers. They're just trying to survive the summer and get a bus full of kids across the country in one piece, but Artie's antics turn their trip into a constant battle of wits. The story is a hilarious look at how one kid's ambition can spiral into coast-to-coast chaos.

Ready to check your understanding? Let's see what you remember about the book.

Now you have the basic setup for Artie Geller's wild summer adventure. Next, we'll take a closer look at the characters who make this trip so memorable.