The Fourth Stall

• Genre: Fiction; middle grade humor
• Originally Published: 2011
• Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 760L; grades 4-7
• Structure/Length: 29 chapters; approx. 314 pages; approx. 6 hours and 30 minutes on audio
• Protagonist/Central Conflict: The story follows sixth-grader Christian “Mac” Barnett, who runs a business out of the fourth stall in the East Wing boys’ bathroom, providing services to his fellow students. When the school bully threatens his operation, Mac and his best friend, Vince, must outsmart him to keep their business going.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Bullying; violence; mild language

Chris Rylander, Author

• Bio: Born 1980; American author of children’s and young adult literature; known for his blend of humor and heart in his storytelling; his work often features relatable characters and engaging plots.
• Other Works: The Fourth Stall Part II (2012); The Fourth Stall Part III (2013); Codename Zero (2014); The Legend of Greg (2018)
• Awards: Texas Library Association Lone Star Reading List (2012); ND Library Association Flickertale Award (2012); Illinois Reads Selection (2014)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Unit:

• Trust, Loyalty, and Betrayal Among Group Members
• A Combination of Talents Provides Insurance for Success
• The Dichotomy Between Innocence and Immortality

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Unit, students will:

• Develop an understanding of the historical and cultural contexts regarding crime syndicates that incite Mac’s conflict.