ItÕs the start of the school year, and nothing feels right to Justin. He didnÕt get the teacher he wanted, heÕs not in the same class as his best friend, and his little sister, Elizabeth, is starting kindergarten at his school. Elizabeth doesnÕt seem nervous at all. Justin is very nervous about third grade. And to top it off, heÕs lost his favorite stuffed animal, but he canÕt tell anyone, because technically heÕs too old to still have stuffed animals. Right?

Here is third grade in all its complicated gloryÑthe friendships, the fears, and the advanced math. Acclaimed author Rachel Vail captures third grade with a perfect pitch, and Matthew CordellÕs line art is both humorous and touching. As Justin bravely tries to step out of his shell, he will step into readersÕ hearts.

Justin Case is a 2011 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.