Book Cover:
Belle Teal's life isn't easy, but she gets by. She lives with her mother and grand-mother far out in the country. They don't have much, but Belle Teal feels rich with their love.
As school begins, Belle Teal faces unexpected challenges. Her best friends are up against some big problems. Gran's memory is slipping away. Mama works longer hours to support the family. And there are two new students in Belle Teal's class: a shy boy caught in the town's furor over desegregation, and a girl living with a big secret.
As her world falls apart, Belle Teal discovers the importance of sticking together-as a family, as a town, and as friends...

A human interest story that deals with troubled times in our history. Sending to vc-mike for his granddaughter. She might like it.

I'll let my granddaughter, SB2 try this one ! Later she can release it @ school or the local library !! SB2 says, "thank you, great auntie",
'Auntdia' for these 2 books on cats & 2 other books! Extra gifts for my 9th birthday (01/19/06)!!