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About the Book


Stand Tall

Tree is twelve-years-old and too tall — six foot three and a half inches and growing.  He’s never really been able to fit in at school or on the basketball team, and since his parents’ divorce he doesn’t even feel comfortable in his own home.  Tree copes by helping people like his grandpa, a Vietnam vet who’s just had part of a leg amputated, and Sophie, a new girl at school who is being teased by the popular kids.  In helping his grandpa learn to walk again and in listening to Sophie’s advice to be himself, Tree begins to heal and to stand tall.

Read the New York Times Review

  • An ALA Notable Book
  • Nominated for 15 state awards

Using the Book

Family therapist, Dr. Catherine Hart Weber, created a set of discussion guides for adults and young people based on Stand Tall. These guides are designed to facilitate discussion when we have to deal with tough times, whether in the headlines or within the family.

Stand Tall Adult Guide (PDF file)

Stand Tall Youth Guide (PDF file)

"An eloquent story of ordinary heroes."
-- Kirkus Review

"The depictions of Tree and his colorful family are candid and endearing...the writing is leavened with the author's special brand of humor."
-- School Library Journal

"...a triumphant tale..."
-- Publishers Weekly