"An ode to the significance of reading in the lives of young people. . . . Unique and original, believable and poignant, this is a book with power of its own." - The Horn Book (starred review)

Thirteen-year-old Travis has a secret: he can't read. But a shrewd teacher and a sassy girl are about to change everything in this witty and deeply moving novel. Mr. McQueen is a rare teacher whose savvy persistence has Travis slowly unlocking a book on the natural world, while Velveeta's wry banter and colorful scarves belie some hard secrets of her own. With sympathy, humor, and disarming honesty, Pat Schmatz captures the moments of trust and connection that make all the difference.