First published 1997
This collection brings together short stories written specifically for eight-year-old readers by eleven accomplished children's authors. Beverly Cleary contributes alongside Roald Dahl, Paula Danziger, Patricia Hermes, Patricia MacLachlan, Patricia C. McKissack, Margaret Mahy, Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, Louis Sachar, Mary Stolz, and E.B. White. Each author crafts tales that speak directly to the experiences and interests of children navigating their eighth year. The stories explore the particular joys and challenges that come with being eight years old, from school adventures to family dynamics to personal discoveries. Young readers will find characters who face situations they recognize from their own lives, handled with the warmth and insight these veteran storytellers bring to children's literature. The collection celebrates the specific perspective of eight-year-olds, acknowledging both their growing independence and their continued need for connection and understanding.
Genres: short-stories, family-life, school-stories
Vibes: emotional, intimate, whimsical
Tropes: found-family
112 pages · Paperback · Scholastic Paperbacks