Because of Mr. Terupt

Features seven narrators, each with a unique story, and each with a different perspective on what makes their teacher so special. It's the start of fifth grade for seven kids at Snow Hill School. There's . . . Jessica, the new girl, smart and perceptive, who's having a hard time fitting in; Alexia, a bully, your friend one second, your enemy the next; Peter, class prankster and troublemaker; Luke, the brain; Danielle, who never stands up for herself; shy Anna, whose home situation makes her an outcast; and Jeffrey, who hates school. Only Mr. Terupt, their new and energetic teacher, seems to know how to deal with them all. He makes the classroom a fun place, even if he doesn't let them get away with much . . . until the snowy winter day when an accident changes everything--and everyone. "The characters are authentic and the short chapters are skillfully arranged to keep readers moving headlong toward the satisfying conclusion."--"School Library Journal, "Starred "This powerful and emotional story is likely to spur discussion."--"Publishers Weekly " "No one is perfect in this feel-good story, but everyone benefits, including sentimentally inclined readers."--"Kirkus Reviews ""Compelling. . . . Readers will find much to ponder on the power of forgiveness."--"Booklist"