Another book gem I discovered at the Texas Book Festival.  This is the first book in this series and introduces us to 10-year old Sophie.  When her parents push her into a spelling bee, Sophie pushes back until a challenge from an irritating classmate makes her dig in her heels.  Throw in a best friend, younger brother and a few adventures in the neighborhood (like an alligator sighting), and this is a very enjoyable read with a subtle message.  Work hard, be determined and it will pay off.

I would highly recommend this book for as early as second grade through sixth grade.

There are two additional benefits about this series.  One – Sophie is a Texas Gal and Two – there are already 7 books in the series to get your reader started!

For more about this author and all her wonderful books  CLICK HERE.

SUMMARY

Sign up for the spelling bee? No way!

If there’s one thing 10-year-old Texan Sophie Washington is good at, it’s spelling. She’s earned straight 100s on all her spelling tests to prove it. Her parents want her to compete in the Xavier Academy spelling bee, but Sophie wishes they would buzz off. That’s until her irritating classmate, Nathan Jones, challenges her. There’s no way she can let Mr. Know-It-All win. Studying is hard when you have a pesky younger brother and a busy social calendar. Can Sophie ignore the distractions and become Queen of the Bee?