It's the start of the school year, and nothing feels right to Justin. He didn't get the teacher he wanted, he's not in the same class as his best friend, and his little sister, Elizabeth, is starting kindergarten at his school. Elizabeth doesn't seem nervous at all. Justin is very nervous about third grade. And to top it off, he's lost his favorite stuffed animal, but he can't tell anyone, because technically he's too old to still have stuffed animals. Right? Here is third grade in all its complicated glory--the friendships, the fears, and the advanced math. Acclaimed author Rachel Vail captures third grade with a perfect pitch, and Matthew Cordell's line art is both humorous and touching. As Justin bravely tries to step out of his shell, he will step into readers' hearts. "Justin Case" is a 2011 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.

Author Biography

Rachel Vail is the author of children's books including "Sometimes I'm Bombaloo" and "Righty and Lefty," in which she also collaborated with artist Matthew Cordell. She is also the author of several books for teens and middle grade readers, including "If We Kiss, You Maybe, Gorgeous, Wonder," and "Never Mind," which she wrote with Avi. Vail attended Georgetown University, where she earned her B.A. in English and Theater. She lives in New York City with her husband and two sons. Matthew Cordell is author and illustrator of "Trouble Gum." He has also illustrated books including "Mighty Casey" by James Preller and "Toby and the Snowflakes," written by his wife, Julie Halpern. He lives outside of Chicago.