When her mom runs away from home, Rachel is left behind with her emotionally distant father and many questions she cannot answer. Over time, she learns the truth about her mom. But it's only when she learns the truth about her dad, the rock- immoveable and always there for her to lean on-that Rachel can move toward understanding. Every word rings true in this achingly real novel in verse.Reviews"Written in a straightforward language, the text clearly reveals Rachel's emotions, describing moments both painful and reassuring."-School Library Journal"I have delayed writing about this book because I wanted to be sure my librarian friends were back in acquisition mode and ready to add this book to your B & T, Follet, or Mackin book order right now. HTR is a fine and rare treasure. I read it straight through in one sitting because I couldn't bear to stop until I knew what was going to happen. . . the story is so uplifting and positive that it will resonate with readers long after they finish it. I know it has with me."-Book Moot (Blog)

In one month Jeremy Fink will turn thirteen. But does he have what it takes to be a teenager? He collects mutant candy, he won't venture more than four blocks from his apartment if he can help it, and he definitely doesn't like surprises. On the other hand, his best friend, Lizzy, isn't afraid of anything, even if that might get her into trouble now and then. Jeremy's summer takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious wooden box arrives in the mail. According to the writing on the box, it holds the meaning of life! Jeremy is supposed to open it on his thirteenth birthday. The problem is, the keys are missing, and the box is made so that only the keys will open it without destroying what's inside. Jeremy and Lizzy set off to find the keys, but when one of their efforts goes very wrong, Jeremy starts to lose hope that he'll ever be able to open the box. But he soon discovers that when you're meeting people named Oswald Oswald and using a private limo to deliver unusual objects to strangers all over the city, there might be other ways of finding out the meaning of life. Lively characters, surprising twists, and thought-provoking ideas make Wendy Mass's latest novel an unforgettable read.

After returning to Schwerinborg after a visit with her mother, Valerie is hoping that her prince, Georg, will be as excited to see her again as she, but during a ski trip to the Alps, things take an unexpected turn, the fighting begins, and Valerie worries that the romance between the two may have gotten damaged beyond repair. Original.

Don't Feed the Bully is a fictional detective story aimed at students 10-14, although, anyone who can read will love this funny and meaningful story. Hannibal Greatneck III, detective, sixth grade student, or Handy to his friends, walks into William B. Travis elementary and finds a cage in the middle of the classroom. The school has dealt with its bully problem by handing over all the power to another bully. Handy must find the clues, outwit the villains, and get control of William B. Travis back to the students and faculty. The story is a funny one with hilarious and serious undertones, but with great purpose. Review "Brad presents a story filled with humor and compassion to help lay out an approach to bullying that goes beyond "just let them work it out together," as is often proposed. In the Appendix, he also offers a practical step-by-step plan to help students use their intelligence to deal with bullies, similar to the way the book's main character dealt with his tormentors." --Gary Cassel, flamingnet.com "If you're tired of the bully who's making school unbearable for your child, you might want to heed the words of author/comedian Brad Tassell:Don't Feed the Bully." --Rebecca Courdret, Evansville Courier-Journal. "Don't Feed The Bully is a quick read that kids will be able to relate to. Important lessons are taught, but the book still manages to be funny and entertaining! Even reluctant readers will enjoy this book, with its fun characters and the mystery that is the center of the story. Most of the pictures are a great addition to the story. Just because there are pictures doesn't make this a book for little kids, though; everyone will enjoy this story! --J. Pear, student reviewer Reviewer Age: 15 Asheville, NC USA Flamingnet.com About the Author