Raymie Nightingale

<p><b><i>New York Times</i> bestselling author Kate DiCamillo returns to her roots with a moving yet witty story of an unforgettable summer friendship. For fans of Jacqueline Wilson David Almond and Katherine Rundell.</b><br><br>In her seventh novel international bestselling author and twice winner of the prestigious Newbery Medal Kate DiCamillo tells a masterful story that blends pathos and humour. Raymie Clarke has come to realize that everything absolutely everything depends on her. And she has a plan. If Raymie can win the Little Miss Central Florida Tire competition then her father &#150; who has run away with a dental hygienist &#150; will see Raymie&#146;s picture in the paper and (maybe) come home. To win not only does Raymie have to do good deeds and learn how to twirl a baton but she has to compete with the wispy frequently fainting Louisiana Elefante with her show-business background and the fiery stubborn Beverly Tapinski who&#146;s determined to sabotage the contest. But as the competition approaches loneliness loss and unanswerable questions draw the three girls into an unlikely friendship &#150; and challenge them to come to each other&#146;s rescue in unexpected ways.</p>