“I learned so much about some stuff that I ended up not knowing anything at all about it”. This quote (from the end of King Dork) serves as a metaphor for the book itself; an amusing albeit convoluted tale of teen America. The novel, although widely hailed as a success, often gets bogged down in the protagonist’s neurotic manner. It is largely, however, an accessible and enjoyable piece of writing; showing American teen life through the eyes of the underdog. Portman, in an impressive debut, creates a refreshing and cynical glimpse of the American High School system; a funny yet important novel that ultimately will make you laugh.