With her trademark wit and easy charm, Barbara O'Connor spins a fantastic fable of friends, enemies, and superbly slimy bullfrogs. An amazing secret has tumbled off a freight train into Carter, Georgia, and Owen Jester is the only person who knows about it. If he can simply manage to evade his grandfather's snappish housekeeper and keep his nosy neighbor, Viola, at bay, he just might be in for the summer of a lifetime. "O'Connor has spun a lovely read that perfectly captures the schemes and plans of school-age kids in the long days of summer."-Kirkus Reviews, starred review
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"Rated from the point of view of my own Owen who loves frogs. A great little boy adventure book. We read it aloud driving to AZ and he didn't want to stop (saying a lot for him). "
— Shauna (4 out of 5 stars)
" I loved this story. It reminded me of being a kid <br/>and playing outside in the summer, having adventures <br/>the adults were not aware of. "
— Jeannie, 10/5/2011" This is very boring because there's no real story it's a bunch of mixed parts. First it's about a frog then it's about a sub next it's about Owen's grandfather. It's very confusing and you get bored after a while. I did enjoy the details the author put in. It makes things a little more exciting. "
— Shrika, 8/18/2011" I wasn't a huge fan of the writing, the characters, or the actual story. The best part of this book is the cover art. NOTHANKYOU. "
— Eleanor, 8/16/2011" Thought this was a wonderful, sweet story with a great protagonist. Will recommend this to many elementary school kids (especially boys) in the neighborhood.Well done! "
— Karen, 8/8/2011" Read for School. Good for all ages. "
— Anne, 7/21/2011" Cute story. Not a lot of depth of character, but a fantastic adventure for kids that age. "
— Theresa, 7/6/2011" So far just a feel good summer novel! Makes me smile. No death, no bullying, police brutalilty. Just summer fun for a group of young boys. "
— Kkeyes, 6/23/2011" What would you do if you found a submarine? "
— L, 6/14/2011" This is a cute summer adventure tale for kids--mildly charming, mildly exciting at times, but nothing special. I listened to this on audio and I hated hated HATED the reader, so I might have something to do with my lack of overwhelming enthusiasm. "
— Sarah, 6/10/2011Barbara O’Connor is an author of award-winning novels for children. Drawing on her South Carolina roots, Barbara’s books are known for their strong Southern settings and quirky characters. In addition to six Parents Choice Awards, Barbara’s distinctions include School Library Journal Best Books, Kirkus Best Books, Bank Street College Best Books, and ALA Notables. She has had books nominated for children’s choice awards in thirty-eight states. Barbara is a popular visiting author at schools and a frequent speaker at conferences around the country. She lives in Asheville, NC.
Noah Galvin has performed in numerous regional and off-Broadway plays, including performances in Yosemite, Treasure Island, Our Town, and Broadway Kids. Also a narrator, he has read books by Stephen Chbosky and Matthew Quick, among others.