Indies Introduce

Middle Grade

• 
  The Way I Say It, Nancy Tandon
  Charlesbridge, 9781623541330, January 18, 2022 (Middle Grade)
  

  “Rory’s inability to pronounce the letter R leads to being a target for bullies. A clever speech therapist introduces Rory to Muhammad Ali and the fighter’s chants give him courage and help him improve his speech a little at a time. Sensitive, engaging, realistic story with characters that ring true to life as a sixth grader.”

  —Shirley Mullin, Kids Ink Children’s Bookstore, Indianapolis, IN
  
  

  “Rory is simply the best — whether he’s struggling to pronounce his name through a speech impediment, learning to stand up to bullies, or just rocking out on his guitar. Tandon’s debut is a celebration of all the things we love — and hate — about ourselves! This book is a total triumph and filled with so much love!”

  —Laura Graveline, Brazos Bookstore, Houston, TX
  

   

  “Rory has a hard time saying his Rs. As if middle school weren’t hard enough! It’s a good thing Rory has a great teacher, first-rate friends and the example of Muhammad Ali to get through it all. Nancy put together an A book with incredibly relatable characters doing their best to work with the cards they’ve been dealt. A reminder to us all to keep pushing; it does get better.”

  —Cliff Helm, Left Bank Books, St. Louis, MO