In 1953 in Chicago, Ruth struggles to deal with her parents' constant arguing, taking care of her younger brothers, one of whom is mentally disabled, and getting along in middle school.
A boy and his parents go out into the rainy spring night to help salamanders cross a busy road on their annual migration to the vernal pools in which they breed. Includes glossary and facts about the life cycle of the salamander.
When a little girl compliments her teacher about the buttons on her outfit, it starts a chain reaction of goodwill, good deeds, and thoughtfulness throughout the day.
