Word After Word After Word

An inspirational short novel for young readers about the power of writing by Newbery Medal–winning author Patricia MacLachlan.

In this heartfelt school story, every school day feels the same for fourth graders Lucy and Henry and Evie and Russell and May. Then Ms. Mirabel comes to their class—bringing magical words and a whole new way of seeing and understanding.

From beloved author Patricia MacLachlan comes an honest, inspiring story about what is real and what is unreal, and about the ways that creative writing can change our lives and connect us to our own stories—word after word after word.

This gentle and heartwarming chapter book shows five young friends they have the power to write their own stories, even when life is tough.

• Finding Your Voice: When a mysterious new teacher named Ms. Mirabel arrives, five fourth-graders learn that their lives—and their words—are more powerful than they ever imagined.
• A Story About Friendship: Follow Lucy, Henry, Evie, Russell, and May as they support each other through family changes, new siblings, and quiet fears, all from their meeting spot under a big lilac bush.
• The Magic of Writing: An inspiring look at the creative process and how putting words on a page can help kids understand their feelings and even change their lives.
• Perfect for the Classroom: With a focus on mentorship and encouragement, this is an ideal read-aloud for teachers and students in grades 2-5 to spark their own storytelling.