The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle
Praise
★ “In this sensitively written novel, Connor introduces a learning-disabled 12-year-old who will warm readers’ hearts and earn their respect with his honesty and compassion. Poignant and suspenseful, Mason’s story crystalizes an adolescent boy’s joys and fears as he comes into his own.” — Publishers Weekly
★ “Connor expertly captures the camaraderie of Calvin and Mason. A poignant underdog tale that will resonate with many young readers.” — School Library Journal
★ “In a moving first-person narrative, Connor reveals a remarkably distinct and memorable character. [T]he author weaves the back story into a narrative of redemption chronicling his growing friendships. Connor’s gift for creating complex characters extends to the supporting characters and makes this a compelling read.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Connor’s portrayal of Mason is spot-on, and the seventh-grader’s honesty shines through as his greatest attribute. Laced throughout the story, and evident at the end, is hope for a brighter future, both for the entire family and the community. A thoughtful look at human nature, resilience, and love.” — Booklist
“Mason’s voice is honest and true, and the multifaceted characters both enrich and propel the narrative.” — Horn Book Magazine
“Could I love a character more than I love Mason Buttle? Nope. Could this book have captured my heart any more? Impossible.” — Barbara O’Connor, author of How to Steal a Dog and Wish
“A book that breaks your heart and heals it—all in one. Mason’s story is brilliantly told. This is an astonishing book!” — Kirby Larson, author of Newbery Honor title, Hattie Big Sky and the Audacity Jones series
“Mason’s astonishing voice will grab you from the first page, as he demonstrates how children with learning disabilities who ‘think outside the box’ can find brilliant ways to survive bullying, be a good friend, and save their families.” — Cammie McGovern, author of Just My Luck and Chester and Gus
Awards and Accolades
National Book Award Finalist
ALA Schneider Family Book Award
2019 ALSC Notable Children’s Book
Publishers Weekly Best Books of 2018
2019-2020 Nebraska Golden Sower Award
Amazon Best Books of 2018
Kirkus Best of Children's 2018
New York Public Library Best Books 2018
Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Books 2018
2018 Nerdy Book Club Middle Grade Winner
South Carolina Junior Book Award Nominee
2020 Colorado Children's Book Award Nominee
Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year 2019 (9-12)
2020 Grand Canyon Reader Award Nominee
2020-2021 Missouri Association of School Librarians Mark Twain Readers Award Preliminary Nominee
2020-2021 Indiana Young Hoosier Book Award Nominee
About
Mason Buttle is the biggest, sweatiest kid in his grade, and everyone knows he can barely read or write. Mason’s learning disabilities are compounded by grief. Fifteen months ago, Mason’s best friend, Benny Kilmartin, turned up dead in the Buttle family’s orchard.
An investigation drags on, and Mason, honest as the day is long, can’t understand why Lieutenant Baird won’t believe the story Mason has told about that day.
Both Mason and his new friend, tiny Calvin Chumsky, are relentlessly bullied by the other boys in their neighborhood, so they create an underground haven for themselves. When Calvin goes missing, Mason finds himself in trouble again. He’s desperate to figure out what happened to Calvin and, eventually, Benny.
But will anyone believe him?
Buy Now!
ISBN: 9780062491435
Imprint: Katherine Tegen Books
On Sale: 01/23/2018
Pages: 336
List Price: 16.99 USD
Ages: 8 to 12