The Seventh Most Important Thing

Written by Shelley Pearsall

This story begins in November 1963, when 13 year old Arthur Owens picks up a brick and throws it at an old homeless man, who is rummaging through garbage cans. As restitution he is court ordered to service hours helping this man. What follows is a very surprising and touching friendship, involving junk collecting, artistic endeavors, more friendships, and life lessons.

I was surprised at the end to learn that this was based on a true story. Make sure to read the Author’s Notes. The book was very well written. I read it all in one sitting and was crying by the inevitabilities and surprises at the end. I loved all seven of the most important things. I highly recommend to grades 4-9.

Review by Terrie Bishop, Academy Park Elementary Media Center
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 4-9

Author Website: http://www.shelleypearsall.com/

The Seventh Most Important Thing
Written by Shelley Pearsall
Alfred A. Knopf
278 pages
Release Date: September 8, 2015