The Great Jeff

In 'The Great Jeff,' readers follow eighth-grader Jeff Hicks as his world is turned upside down. After his mom loses her job, Jeff is plunged into anxieties about paying rent, potential homelessness, and his mother's increasing reliance on alcohol. He's also grappling with the challenges of a new public middle school and the painful fallout from a friendship with his former best friend, Tom Bender, involving 'that burned girl' Jessica Feeney. This powerful story offers a realistic and poignant look at a troubled boy finding his life spiraling, exploring themes of family, poverty, friendship, and resilience.

Perfect for fans of Gary D. Schmidt comes the companion to the modern classic Firegirl from acclaimed writer Tony Abbott -- now in paperback! Life hasn't been great for Jeff Hicks. After years at his beloved St. Catherine's, he's forced to spend eighth grade in the public middle school, which he hates. He's no longer speaking to his former best friend, Tom Bender, because of "that burned girl" Jessica Feeney. But worst of all, his family is changing, and it's not for the better. When his mom comes home announcing that she's lost her job, Jeff begins to worry about things far beyond his years: How will they pay the rent? Will his absentee dad step up and save the day? Is his mom drinking too much? And ultimately, where will they live? The Great Jeff is a powerful look at the life of a troubled boy who finds his life spiraling out of control.