Book excerpt: "The New Boys at Oakdale" by Morgan Scott is a young adult novel that takes readers into the world of Oakdale Academy, where new students face challenges, make friends, and grow through their experiences. The story centers around two new students, Jack and Mark, who arrive at Oakdale Academy with mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety. They are about to embark on a new chapter of their lives, leaving behind their familiar surroundings to attend the prestigious school. As they settle into Oakdale, Jack and Mark navigate the complexities of school life, including academic challenges, making friends, and dealing with bullies. Along the way, they encounter a diverse group of classmates, each with their own personalities and quirks. The novel explores themes of friendship, resilience, and personal growth as the characters face various obstacles and learn valuable life lessons. Jack and Mark's journey at Oakdale Academy is one of self-discovery, as they come to understand themselves better and find their places within the school community. "The New Boys at Oakdale" provides readers with an engaging and relatable coming-of-age story, highlighting the universal experiences of young people as they transition into new environments and face the ups and downs of adolescence. It underscores the importance of friendship and the ability to overcome challenges, making it a compelling read for young readers seeking stories of personal growth and adventure.