Award-winning Author of Over 40 Books for Young Readers & Adults
“Freak the Mighty” A New Musical!
Friends:
My novel “Freak the Mighty” has been adapted into a musical!
The Cleveland Play House presented this new musical on May 22-June 21, 2026. The musical is now moving on to the Bagleyy Wright Theater in Seattle, Washington, with previews starting July 30, and Opening Night on August 5. The musical will run until September 6. Click Here for more information and to purchase tickets for the show in Seattle.
Here is a Press Release about the opening at the Cleveland Play House…
Cleveland Play House (CPH) presents Freak The Mighty May 22-June 21, 2026, a co-production with Seattle Rep. This new musical with book and lyrics by Anthony Drewe, music by Ryan Fielding Garrett, directed by CPH Artistic Director Michael Barakiva, and choreographed by David Connolly, is based on the beloved novel by Rodman Philbrick. The story follows the adventures of two unlikely friends, Maxwell Kane and Kevin “Freak” Avery. Though Maxwell and Kevin feel like outsiders, together they transform into “Freak The Mighty”, a heroic duo empowered to take on the world. Shepherded by the Tony® Award-winning producers of Come From Away, Freak The Mighty celebrates friendship, resilience, and community in the face of adversity: a soaring new musical that connects to the dreamer in all of us. Click Here to read the entire press release.
The musical received rave reviews in Cleveland. We are very excited about Seattle. Where it goes from there…fingers crossed!
Read the Review abour the performance at the Cleveland Play House! Click Here!
Welcome to Rodman Philbrick’s World of Adventure!
Welcome to the world of adventure in Rodman Philbrick’s books. Whether you are a young reader or an adult, there is sure to be a story that draws you in, challenges your thinking, and peaks your imagination.
Rodman Philbrick wrote his first novel when he was sixteen. His themes often present adventurous stories of individuals facing difficult challenges that must be overcome.
His first novels were for adults–thrillers, mysteries, detective stories, medical thrillers. It wasn’t until later that he wrote his first book for young readers, Freak the Mighty, that eventually led to the movie, The Mighty. Rod continues to write for young readers, and many of his books are used in classrooms around the country. His stories and engaging characters help spur discussions that relate to challenges in student lives, and help foster a love for reading.
With more than 40 published books to his credit, plus numerous short stories written as early as sixth grade, Rodman always loved to read and write. It started when he and his young brothers would act out stories they read in books.
His acclaim as a writer is exceptional and his awards and honors are numerous. Most notably, his detective stories for adults have been recognized by the prestigious Shamus Award for being among the best detective stories published. His books for young people have received countless honors, including the much sought after Newbery Honor. For a full list click on the Awards page.
Prompted by his publisher, in addition to publishing under his own name, he has also published under the pen names of William Dantz, W. R. Philbrick, and Chris Jordan.
Whether you are new to his books or already a fan, spend some time exploring a book you haven’t yet read. Sit back then and let the adventure begin!
Classroom Guides for Teachers
Use Rodman Philbrick books as teaching guides in your classrooms.
Click here for detailed descriptions of class activities and discussions that will enhance your students’ learning.
Audio Books Available
Some of Rodman Philbrick’s books are available on audio from Amazon.
“The Mighty” Movie Trailer
Zane & The Hurricane
What’s New!
We Own the Sky is a thrilling historical adventure about the rise of the KKK, targeting immigrants in Maine in 1924.
Amazon B&N
Wildfire is a Scholastic Book Fairs and Book Clubs featured title, published in 2019, that weaves a thrilling survival story about 12-year-old Sam forced to face a raging wildfire that threatens his life. Can he survive? Find out for yourself. Amazon B&N
Wild River is a gritty, suspenseful tale about a whitewater rafting trip that goes horribly wrong.
Amazon B&N
Stay Alive is a novel that brings to life the excitement, danger, and horrors of the Donner Party’s journey west. Amazon B&N
