Also Known as Rowan Pohi

by Ralph Fletcher

  The doorbell rang. It was Missy, come to walk her to school.

  "Hi, Missy," Mom said.

  "Hi, Mrs. White," Missy said.

  Mom turned back to look at Rachel.

  "You look terrific," she said. "You always look smashing in that skirt."

  Rachel leaned into Mom's hug.

  "Keep your eyes peeled on the way to school," Mom whispered. "Okay, honey? And if you happen to spot that voice of yours lying on the ground, well, just pick it up and bring it home."

  Rachel closed her eyes and nodded. Mom said the same thing, word for word, every morning.

  Visit your favorite store to purchase the book.

  HOUGHTON MIFFLIN HARCOURT