Ten-year-old Laney Grafton has never met anyone like Lara Phelps. Lara is so large that she can't fit in a regular classroom desk or sit on a bench in the cafeteria, but that isn't what fascinates Laney. Laney is astounded that Lara is large, but confident. Lara takes teasing or cruelty and returns smiles and kind words. She sees the best in her classmates and chooses to focus on the good in spite of the opposition and meanness shown her. However, even Lara Phelps can be pushed too far.
Through the fresh and insightful voice of Laney Grafton, Dandi Daley Mackall breathes light and hope into a classic story of bullying. Lara is a character to admire and emulate and Laney's personal growth is touching. This book tells an interesting story while teaching profound lessons about the power of kindness in the face of cruelty. It is a wonderful story to help young readers look outside of themselves.
Recommended Ages--9 and up.