Thirteen ways to sink a sub

Thirteen Ways to Sink a Sub was published in 1982 by Lothrop, Lee & Shepard, with the ABC-CLIO edition serving as a later library-focused reissue. Written by Jamie Gilson, the novel emerged during a period of growth in humorous middle-grade fiction, capturing the specific anxieties and schoolyard dynamics of the early 1980s. The story follows Hobie Hanson and his classmates as they attempt to manipulate their substitute teacher, reflecting a common trope of classroom literature that explores the power struggle between students and authority figures.

The book is notable for its authentic representation of elementary school social hierarchies and the empathetic, albeit mischievous, nature of its protagonist. Gilson, a former teacher herself, drew upon her classroom experiences to ground the narrative in realistic dialogue and relatable frustrations. The work received favorable attention for its humor and warmth, establishing Gilson as a reliable voice in the genre and leading to a series of sequels centered on the character of Hobie Hanson.