First published 2018
Bixby Alexander Tam goes by Bat, and today brings him a wonderful surprise. His mom works as a veterinarian, and she carries a tiny skunk kit through their front door. The baby animal needs care before going to a wildlife shelter, but Bat feels an instant connection. He knows this skunk belongs with him. His mom gives him thirty days to prove that a skunk can work as a family pet. Bat faces challenges at school with friends and teachers while navigating life at home with his sister and divorced parents. He lives on the autism spectrum, which makes some situations harder to handle. The clock ticks as Bat works to show his mom that this unusual friendship could flourish. Arnold writes with warmth about a boy who sees the world differently and finds joy in unexpected places. The story captures the hope and determination of a child fighting for something he believes in.
Genres: fiction, family-life, contemporary
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking, warm
Tropes: found-family, underdog
224 pages · Paperback · Walden Pond Press