Raising Sweetness
Ever since the kindhearted sheriff done adopted little Sweetness (and all them other precious orphans, too), things has been darn near perfect out in Possum Trot. Only problem is, the meals is just a mite too interestin’, what with the catfish chili and the pickle and banana pie. And the housekeepin’ is downright peculiar.
Ever so often, them young ‘uns start to wishin’ their sweet pa would go and get himself married. When a mysterious letter arrives one day, Sweetness figgers it might be the solution to all their problems—if only they can learn how to read it. But don’t you worry your little head none. She’s done it afore; she can do it again. Leave it to Sweetness to save the day!
Recognition & Awards
An American Library Association Notable Book; Horn Book, Fanfare Books; School Library Journal, Best Books; Smithsonian Magazine, Notable Books for Children; Bank Street College’s Best Children’s Books of the Year; Miami Herald, Top Ten Books; Winner, Utah Book Award; Nominee for Indiana’s Young Hoosier Book Award; Starred Review, Horn Book; Starred Review, School Library Journal; Starred Review, Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books.