Lunch Money (novel)

Lunch Money is a 2005 children's novel by the American author Andrew Clements, illustrated by Brian Selznick.

Plot summary

Greg Kenton is a 6th-grader with considerable talent, but whose greatest talent is as an entrepreneur. His newest business, Chunky Comics, is successful, until long-time rival and business competitor, Maura Shaw, distributes mini books of her own. Eventually, the two come together to form a partnership, and also friendship. The principal, Mrs. Davenport, has some doubts about granting them permission to sell their comics, but eventually consents. Chunky Comics becomes a huge domestic hit, and is eventually distributed nationally on eBay. Eventually, Greg realizes that money does not create happiness.

Characters

Main characters

• Greg Kenton, a creative and imaginative boy who is Maura's rival-turn-friend, the creator of Chunky comics

• Maura Shaw, a smart girl who is Greg's rival-turn-friend
• Mr. Z/Mr. Zenotopoulous, Greg and Maura's math teacher
• Mr. and Mrs. Kenton, Greg's supporting but concerned parents

• Mrs. Davenport, Ashworth intermediate school principal

Supporting characters

• Joan Kenton, Greg's mother and Billy's wife
• Billy Mac Kenton, Greg's father and Joan's husband
• Ted Kendall, Greg's best friend
• Teddy Rock, Greg and Maura's friend

Tertiary characters

• Ross Kenton, Greg's second brother
• Edward Kenton, Greg and Ross' eldest brother
• Lisa, Maura's best friend forever

Other Characters

• Mrs. Jansen, Greg and Maura's neighbor
• Timmy Jansen, Mrs. Jansen's son
• Mrs. Altman, Joan's neighbour
• Mrs. Emmet, School nurse
• Mr. Kendall, Ted's father
• Paul, Greg's classmate

Setting

• Ashworth Intermediate School
• Greg's house
• Maura's house
• On the sidewalk