Review: School Dance - Sarah Sax

Review: School Dance - Book #3 The Brinkley Yearbooks Series - Sarah Sax - August 2025

Okay, real talk—if you’ve ever felt like the universe was out to embarrass you in front of your entire school, then School Dance by Sarah Sax is going to feel like your diary got turned into a novel. Milo, our lovable disaster magnet, is convinced he’s cursed. And honestly? After face-planting into a wedding cake and nearly concussing himself on Halloween, I don’t blame him. But what makes this story shine isn’t just the slapstick moments (though they’re hilarious)—it’s the heart behind them.

Milo’s journey to the dance floor is about more than just avoiding catastrophe. It’s about friendship, family, and finding the courage to show up as your full, awkward self. Al and Viv, his ride-or-die besties, are the kind of friends every tween deserves—supportive, slightly chaotic, and totally determined to help Milo break his “curse.” And then there’s Abuela. Oh, Abuela! She’s the kind of grandparent who brings wisdom, rhythm, and just the right amount of sass. Her belief in Milo is the emotional anchor of the story, and I adored every scene she was in.

As someone who’s tripped over her own feet more times than she’d like to admit (don’t ask about the time I tried Zumba at the Merivale community centre), I felt seen by Milo’s struggles. Sarah Sax nails that tween feeling of wanting to fit in but also stand out, of being terrified and excited all at once. And the school dance? It’s not just a party—it’s a metaphor for stepping into who you are, even if your moves are more “flailing octopus” than “smooth operator.”

Perfect for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid , Dork Diaries or Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life, School Dance is a laugh-out-loud, feel-good read that reminds us all: confidence isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up anyway.

So grab your glitter gel pens, blast your favorite playlist, and get ready to cheer Milo on. Because sometimes, the best dance moves come after a few epic wipeouts. 

Amazon: https://amzn.to/4plFTMD