First published 1988
Andrew has a peculiar habit that sets him apart from other children. Every word he speaks comes out in perfect rhyme. His grandfather watches over him with patience and love, but Andrew's special way of talking comes with an unfortunate side effect. He cannot seem to keep anything intact. Dishes slip from his hands, toys fall apart at his touch, and simple tasks turn into small disasters. His grandfather tries different approaches to help Andrew navigate daily life without causing chaos. The boy wants to fit in and please the adults around him, but his rhyming speech and accident-prone nature make ordinary moments complicated. Together, Andrew and his grandfather search for ways to embrace what makes Andrew different while finding practical solutions to the problems his gifts create. Their relationship deepens as they learn that some challenges require creativity rather than correction.
Genres: fiction, family-life, contemporary
Vibes: emotional, intimate, whimsical
Tropes: found-family, unique-abilities
80 pages · Hardcover · Walker Books Ltd