SYNOPSIS

It’s not bad enough that fellow second grader Anna is a pushy know-it-all, she also gets to be first in everything because of the annoying Alphabetical Order. 

For a school assignment, Elizabeth’s name will start with two A’s (as well as an exclamation point and some sticks and stones). 

Elizabeth’s rebellion against the Alphabetical Order motivates the whole class to choose a new “order” where everyone feels appreciated, special and first in something. 

And maybe Anna will become a friend, too!

(1st in a 4-book series)

PERFECT AGE 6 – 8

THEMES

• Fight for your convictions, even when it’s tough and no one (especially your older brother) agrees.
• Work through challenges even if your original idea doesn’t pan out.
• Don’t judge a book by its cover – fellow students and even the teacher can surprise you!

We love

• Elizabeth! She is just as unique, brave, and fun as her brother Justin of the Justin Case book series.
• How awesome that quiet Fiona, who never said anything in class, speaks up and resolves the Alphabetical Order conflict!
• Kids yell, smell bad, forget homework due dates – yet somehow, they are also super adorable and wise.

CONVERSATION STARTERS

• What does the phrase “Sticks and stones…” mean? Tell me about a time when someone’s words / name-calling hurt you.
• Why do you think Ms. Patel raised her hand? What did she do next and why is that important?
• What did you learn from Elizabeth’s experience with the poster? What would you have done in her place?