Kizzy Ann Stamps
Age 9+
General Fiction
“A powerful story of strength and self-acceptance. . . . The vivid historical setting will leave readers feeling they have experienced life in Kizzy Ann’s world.” — Kirkus Reviews
In 1963, as Kizzy Ann prepares for her first year at an integrated school, she worries about the color of her skin, the scar running from the corner of her eye to the tip of her smile, and whether anyone at the white school will like her. She writes letters to her new teacher in a clear, insistent voice, asking questions with startling honesty. The new teacher is supportive, but not everyone feels the same. Her brother, James, is having a far less positive school experience, and the annoying white neighbor boy won’t leave her alone. Shag, her border collie, is her refuge, but opportunity continues to clash with obstacle. Kizzy Ann knows she and Shag could compete in the dog trials, but will she be able to enter? From Jeri Watts comes an inspiring middle- grade novel about opening your mind to the troubles and scars we all must bear — and facing life with hope and trust.
Creators
Jeri Watts has worked as a public school teacher for twenty-seven years. She has written numerous short stories as well as the picture book Keepers, published in 1997. Kizzy Ann Stamps is her first middle-grade novel.
