Reading Metrics
Description
Despite his love of drawing and his feelings of inadequacy as an athlete, sixth-grader Xander "Suitcase" Bingham works to become a basketball and baseball player to win the approval of his father.
Quick Summary
Xander "Suitcase" Bingham loves to draw but tries to become a star athlete just to impress his distant dad, and the nickname comes from always carrying his sketchbook around. Kids will root for Xander as he navigates the hilarious and heartbreaking pressure of trying to be something he's not while discovering that being true to yourself matters more than winning Dad's approval. If your kid loves books like "Holes" or "Wonder" where kids face tough challenges with humor and heart, they'll absolutely connect with Xander's journey. This 4.8 AR level, 11,950-word novel is perfect for fourth through eighth graders who enjoy stories about friendship, family drama, and finding your own identity.