About This Book
Reach for this book if your child feels like they don't quite fit into the standard social circles at school or if they are navigating the complexities of middle school social hierarchies. It is a masterclass in showing how individual quirks and diverse backgrounds can come together to create a powerful sense of community. The story follows four sixth-graders and their teacher, Mrs. Olinski, who uses a wheelchair, as they prepare for an academic competition. Through interconnected stories involving sea turtles, calligraphy, and tea parties, the book explores how small acts of kindness build lasting resilience. It is a sophisticated, gentle, and deeply rewarding read for children aged 9 to 13, emphasizing that everyone has a story worth hearing and that being 'smart' is about much more than just facts. Parents will appreciate the respectful treatment of disability and the nuanced portrayal of intergenerational friendships.
