About This Book
Reach for this book when your child expresses frustration with the constraints of school or dreams of a life far away from their current responsibilities. It is a perfect choice for the student who feels that the classroom is a cage and that their 'real life' is waiting for them elsewhere. Set in 1904 Indiana, the story follows fifteen-year-old Russell Culver, who hopes the death of his teacher will finally mean the end of his education and a ticket to the Dakotas. Instead, his older sister Tansy takes over the one-room schoolhouse, forcing Russell to confront his own potential and the value of hard work. At its heart, this is a story about the transition from childhood rebellion to mature ambition. Richard Peck uses humor and historical detail to explore themes of sibling dynamics, community expectations, and the unexpected ways a good teacher can change a person's trajectory. It is age-appropriate for middle schoolers, offering a witty but grounded look at the importance of showing up for one's own life, even when it feels mundane.
