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
Well written review. I want to go find out all seven important things. Thanks for posting this.
GIVE-AWAY! We have a copy of this title to give away to a Granite library or classroom! Leave a comment with your name here by 2/7/16 for a chance to win. Drawing will be held Monday 2/8.
There are other book giveaways going right now as well, don’t miss them!
I think this book sounds really good, i would love a copy.
Congratulations! You are the winner of this drawing! A copy of The Seventh Most Important Thing will be coming to your library through district mail. Thanks for looking and commenting!
This book sounds amazing and I would love to read it and have a copy for our library!!
I am interested in reading this book and would love a copy!
Another fine review, Terrie. This sounds like a book I would like to have on my shelves here at school.
Love the story behind this book. Would love a copy to share with my students!
I can’t wait to read this book! I really think that my students would enjoy it.
Very excited for this book! I think it’s an important thing to have, especially in a school where it’s a very diverse community.
The scavenger hunt is over :(
I have heard good things about this book. Nice review and for pointing out about the author notes. Thanks.
I love a book the makes me cry…and I love recommending them to students:)
Our library has a copy of this book and the kids who have read it have really enjoyed it. We’d love another copy!
This contest is now closed. Thanks everyone for participating. We will be doing more of these in the near future, so keep your eyes open.