Hound Dog True

This heartwarming chapter book introduces Mattie Breen, a bashful new fifth grader who devises a clever plan to avoid social interaction: becoming her Uncle Potluck's custodial apprentice at school. Mattie diligently records her uncle's 'custodial wisdom,' hoping to secure her new role and stay safely out of sight during lunch and recess. However, when her carefully laid plans unravel, Mattie is forced to confront her fears and make a small, brave choice that ultimately leads her to an authentic and loyal friendship. It's a gentle story about overcoming shyness, finding belonging, and the unexpected ways courage can manifest.

A story about small acts of courage from the author of A Crooked Kind of Perfect. Do not let a mop sit overnight in water. Fix things before they get too big for fixing. Custodial wisdom: Mattie Breen writes it all down. She has just one week to convince Uncle Potluck to take her on as his custodial apprentice at Mitchell P. Anderson Elementary School. One week until school starts and she has to be the new girl again. But if she can be Uncle Potluck’s apprentice, she’ll have important work to do during lunch and recess. Work that will keep her safely away from the other fifth graders. But when her custodial wisdom goes all wrong, Mattie’s plan comes crashing down. And only then does she begin to see how one small, brave act can lead to a friend who is hound dog true. This ebook includes a sample chapter of THE CENTER OF EVERYTHING.