Minnie McClary’s life was turned upside down when her family moved from the big city to a small town, and now she has nothing but problems. Miss Marks, her new language arts teacher, thinks that the way to solve problems is to start by asking questions. But Minnie has so many questions she doesn’t even know where to start. Like why did her father lose his job by blowing a whistle? Why is her war veteran uncle obsessed with building a helicopter in the basement? Why do people make fun of her new friend Amira’s head scarf? Why do all of the parents care so much about the rainbow tattoo on Miss Marks’s ankle? And what can you do when you know you should stand up for what’s right, but you might be too scared?
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"We all have questions rolling around in our heads an no one to answer them, what an inspirational story for us to pull from. Write write write your questions down and write about them. You have the answers and this will inspire you to stand up and talk about what you believe in."
— Kaira (5 out of 5 stars)
" My mom got this for me early, at amazon, where she works. I picked it up, and it was addicting, but a little corny, and it wasnt very well written. But loved the inspiring story, and the amazing Language Arts teacher, Miss Marks. "
— Peter, 1/2/2014" I enjoyed this book very much. Minnie was endearing, her teacher was inspiring and the deeper messages made it a great read. Valerie Hobbs is one of my favorite children's authors. "
— Kimberley, 10/24/2013" When is the time to stand up for what you think is right, is true, is worth fighting for? "
— Sue, 8/4/2013" 6th grader in a new school learns what it means to do the right thing, take a stand and confront prejudice. A little didactic, but touches on some series issues- war, ptss, intolerance etc. "
— Mercy, 4/3/2013" Very thought provoking book as author intended. Will recommend to kids looking for answers to life's questions. "
— Ally, 3/9/2013" I loved this book!If I had a teacher like Miss.Marks i would love that class.I love the twist Minnie uncle put on the story.This is one of the books that you have the feeling like you're glad you read that book.I don't get that feeling for all my books but for most of them. "
— Trinity, 12/20/2012" Review to come for School Library Journal. "
— Laurie, 12/14/2012" Excellent read! I would recommend this book to any teacher. It reminds us of the importance of creating thinkers, not just kids who can bubble in a test! "
— Sarah, 11/10/2012" Well, I'm a sucker for a good teacher story, so I was bound to love this book. It's a great opportunity to talk to kids about standing up for what you believe is right. "
— Mindy, 7/28/2012Tara Sands is an American actress, television host, and voice talent who has won numerous AudioFile Earphones Awards for narration. She is former cohost of Fridays on the Cartoon Network. In addition to performing in plays and musicals, her voice can be heard on numerous commercials, audiobooks, cartoons, and video games.