Sticks & Stones [Paperback]

Sticks & Stonesby Abby Cooper is a feel-good middle grade debut with just a dash of magic...

Ever since she was a baby, the words people use to describe Elyse have instantly appeared on her arms and legs. At first it was just cute and adorable, but as she's gotten older and kids have gotten meaner, words like loser and pathetic appear, and those words bubble up and itch. And then there are words like interesting, which she's not really sure how to feel about.

Now, at age twelve, she's starting middle school, and just when her friends who used to accept and protect her are drifting away, she receives an anonymous note saying I know who you are, and I know what you're dealing with. I want to help. As Elyse works to solve the mystery of who is sending her these notes, she also finds new ways to accept who she is and to become her best self.

Fans ofWonderby R.J. Palacio will enjoy this book for its similar writing style, compelling characters, and upbeat tone...A quirky, clever, and lighthearted look at what it means to accept oneself... School Library Journal

Abby Cooper, a former teacher and school librarian, lives in Minnesota with her miniature poodle, Louis, and a whole bunch of books. Her favorite things in the world (besides writing) are getting and giving book recommendations and sharing her love of reading with others. In her spare time, she likes eating cupcakes, running along the Mississippi River, and watching a lot of bad reality TV.Sticks & Stonesis her first novel. Middle grade readers will enjoy Elyses wry observations about school and family life, and most will relate to the agony of dealing with being different, especially during those awkward ?preteen and teenage years. Fans ofWonderby R.J. Palacio will enjoy this book for its similar writing style, compelling characters, and upbeat tone... A quirky, clever, and lighthearted look at what it means to accelc.