New York Times bestselling author Kate Di Camillo returns to her roots with a moving yet witty story of an unforgettable summer friendship For fans of Jacqueline Wilson David Almond & Katherine Rundell In her seventh novel international bestselling author & twice winner of the prestigious Newbery Medal Kate Di Camillo tells a masterful story that blends pathos & humour Raymie Clarke has come to realize that everything absolutely everything depends on her & she has a plan If Raymie can win the Little Miss Central Florida Tire competition then her father
- who has run away with a dental hygienist
- will see Raymie's picture in the paper & (maybe) come home To win not only does Raymie have to do good deeds & learn how to twirl a baton but she has to compete with the wispy frequently fainting Louisiana Elefante with her show-business background & the fiery stubborn Beverly Tapinski who's determined to sabotage the contest But as the competition approaches loneliness loss & unanswerable questions draw the three girls into an unlikely friendship
- & challenge them to come to each other's rescue in unexpected ways