Kate DiCamillo has a clever habit of writing stories that seem unassuming or even small, but actually are funny and far-reaching and full of heart. The beloved Tale of Despereaux worked this way, and Ferris is her latest offering that tackles the big questions with tenderly chosen answers. Ferris, our protagonist, has to reckon with complications at home, with her six-year-old sister Pinky vowing to become an outlaw, her grandmother Charisse feeling poorly, and, topping it all off, starting to see a ghost in her room. Is it an alarming omen, or an exciting opportunity? And how is Ferris going to come to grips with it all? As a reader, meeting Ferris felt special and truthful and fun, and I’m thrilled to be able to introduce her to you. - Leona