Love, Ruby Lavender

Ruby Lavender used to have a good life.

She and her grandmother, Miss Eula, were inseparable--they even drove the getaway car together for chickens rescued from the slaughterhouse! But this summer, Miss Eula will be in Hawaii, and Ruby's sure it'll be a lonely, empty, horrible season without her.

What happens instead? Ruby makes a new friend, saves the school play, writes plenty of letters to her favorite (and only) grandmother . . . and finally stops blaming herself for her grandfather's death.

This classic middle grade story is a perfect summer read about finding your own way when your whole world changes.

An Unforgettable Grandparent-Grandchild Relationship: Miss Eula might be in Hawaii, but her letters full of love and advice (and her rescued chickens!) make sure Ruby never feels truly alone. A Surprising New Friendship: When the quirky, anthropology-loving Dove moves to town, Ruby discovers that making a new friend is the best cure for a lonely summer. A Southern Coming of Age Story: From saving the town operetta to facing the past, Ruby learns that she is stronger and braver than she ever thought possible. Laughter Through Tears: A story that tackles the tough topic of losing a loved one with the perfect blend of Mississippi humor and genuine warmth that has made it a classroom favorite.