About the Author

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Karen English is a Coretta Scott King Honor Award-winner and the author of It All Comes Down to This, a Kirkus Prize Finalist, as well as the Nikki and Deja and The Carver Chronicles series. Her novels have been praised for their accessible writing, authentic characters, and satisfying storylines. She is a former elementary school teacher and lives in Los Angeles, California.

Laura Freeman received her BFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York City and began her career illustrating for various editorial clients. Laura has illustrated many fine children’s books over the years, including Fancy Party Gowns: The Story of Fashion Designer Ann Cole Lowe, written by Deborah Blumenthal, and the Coretta Scott King Honor Book Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race, by Margot Lee Shetterly. Laura now lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with her husband and their two children. Find out more about Laura at www.lfreemanart.com.

Praise For…

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"Many independent readers, particularly boys, will identify with these characters and their struggles. The series continues to present appealing and likable characters gently exploring the moral dilemmas of childhood." —Kirkus   "Budding zoologist Carlos is a great addition to the roster at Carver Elementary, and whether kids have read the previous title in the series or not, they’ll find him appealing and authentic company." —Bulletin  Praise for Skateboard Party: The Carver Chronicles, Bk 2   "A welcome series addition that emphasizes familiarity instead of difference and treats its message with an affectionately light hand."—Kirkus Reviews  Praise for Dog Days: The Carver Chronicles, Bk 1     "Chapter book readers have few options if they want to read about urban boys of color; here's hoping for more.”—The Horn Book Magazine