Making Plans for Nigel Binty - by Shawn K Stout (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Told in two perspectives, explores what happens when two sixth graders overwhelmed by major life changes cross paths."-- Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

A heartwarming middle grade novel about figuring out who you are when it seems like everyone else has already decided for you, for fans of Erin Entrada Kelly and Gary D. Schmidt.

Nigel Binty has spent sixth grade trying to stick to a plan. His problem is the plan keeps changing in unexpected ways. His only friend has dropped him. His dad moved out two months ago. His anxiety isn't getting any better. None of that is part of the plan.

When Glory Bea Medford (yes, that's her real name) turns up at school in March, she plans to keep the reason for her mid-year transfer a secret. Glory Bea prizes being truthful but having everyone find out her father embezzled money from his church was bad enough the first time around. She doesn't plan to go through that again.

Told in two perspectives, with Glory Bea's chapters presented as unmailed letters to her incarcerated father, Shawn K. Stout uses warmth and humor to explore what happens when two sixth graders overwhelmed by major life changes cross paths.

Review Quotes

Stout's latest is a genuine, believable look at the way a single connection can be redemptive, even in what can feel like the worst time of one's life. . . .Beautifully wrought; convincing, affirming, and entertaining.
--Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

The classroom scenes are realistic, drawing readers into a world they recognize. Nigel and Glory Bea are portrayed as nuanced, believable characters. . . . Their journey is heartwarming and relatable. . . . A charming coming-of-age story featuring realistically portrayed children who are ­facing life's challenges.
--School Library Journal

Nigel's anxiety and Glory Bea's turbulent past are empathetically portrayed in this warm reflection on the power--and responsibility--of having and being a good friend.
--Publishers Weekly

About the Author

Shawn K. Stout is the author of several acclaimed books for young readers, including The Anatomy of Lost Things and The Impossible Destiny of Cutie Grackle, which was a Bank Street Best Book. Shawn is a science writer at the National Institutes of Health and holds an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts. She lives with her husband and daughter in Maryland. Visit her at shawnkstout.com.