Five boys from Napa, California, are doing their best to make it through middle school. This group of Grape Field Middle School misfits includes Blake "the Snake" Sloan, Jeff "the Nose" McCoy, Billy "the Mackster" Mack, Sy "Slo-Mo" Wilcox, and Wesley "Tex" Strait. Together, they get in and out of trouble, dealing with both school and romance.

Blake develops a crush on Rose, but he doesn't know how to talk to a girl. She's not like his buddies, and it's going to take an awful lot of work to charm her. Meanwhile, the boys get caught up in adventures, including a scary overnighter to Tex's parents' ranch and some dangerous neighborhood shenanigans.

Blake realizes over the course of his relationship with Rose that his friends can both help him and hinder him. Even so, girls may come and go, but true friends are forever. Middle school might not be big enough for Blake and his buds, but the boys aren't big enough for the real world-not yet, but they will be someday

How was the universe created, and why? What is the role of man on Earth, and that of intelligent beings on other planets, in it? What is life like on some other planets? Why is man here, what is expected of him? These are some of the questions that this book answers. The translator considers the materials in this book as religion and philosophy of life for people who are searching for the full truth and are willing to think for themselves and to question commonly accepted beliefs. It tells how man should live so that it would be good for everyone, and so that Christ's statement about "Paradise on Earth" would indeed come true. The part dealing with religion can be divided into two broad categories. The first one explains, clarifies, and in a few cases supplements the concepts which the Prophets of the past, such as Buddha, Christ, Indra, Mohammed, Moses, Zoroaster, and others proclaimed. The second part tells what the Prophets of the past could not tell back then, because the humanity of that time would not have understood them. Now that humanity's science is much further advanced. The Almighty has decided o reveal the complete truth about the universe. Here the latest scientific knowledge is brought in, and hints are given beyond the current knowledge of science. This book tells about and explains The Almighty's religion of the universe. This in turn entails the reason for the creation of the universe, how the universe is being created and governed, and, yes, the very significant role which man of Earth is expected to play in this process. Examples are given from intelligent life on other planets and much is said about how man should live and what he should not do. There are stories that help to illustrate the points. The Almighty's religion differs dramatically from all other religions currently practiced on Earth. It recognizes and acknowledges all other religions, it does not require an individual to join it. It does not threaten or condemn the "nonbelievers," it permits, it insists in each individual choosing freely for himself or herself. It merely provides some truly thought provoking materials to ponder.

This book was written and illustrated by Victoria Freeman in response to the trauma her grandson experienced when his "Daddy" was shipped to Iraq. Victoria is a career elementary teacher who personally witnessed the hurt and loneliness a child experiences when a parent is not home. Victoria used her talent as an artist and educator to help children cope with their loneliness and sense of abandonment.

The information provided by Dr. Hedberg in this book is excellent for parents as their children's "first" teacher. The book also provides helpful guidelines for educators offering parenting education to their families. Al Sanchez, Retired Principal, Educational Consultant, parent of three mature children. Dr. Hedberg presents a thoughtful recipe for healthy family living. He begins with a candid assessment of desirable ingredients; adds generous portions of practical training for parents in managing issues that "happen" in most families; in developing leader qualities in children; and even practical guidelines for the wise use of the internet. Let it simmer in your mind and heart, and enjoy the feast. Dean M. Johnson, D. Min. Retired, Former Minister and International Family Care Consultant, Trails, British Colombia, Canada, parent of five mature children. Parenting is like being on a journey and not knowing where the next corner will be, how high the next hill will be and how deep the next valley will be. Dr. Hedberg helps equip parents with goals that are practical and lessons that effectively give direction. He addresses behavior patterns that cause negative influences and helps identify personality problems. You will learn to equip your children to eventually leave home with a healthy emotional and spiritual confidence while building their self-esteem. Ron Hendricks, CGPP, Director of Planned Giving, Trinity Western University, Langley, British Colombia, Canada, parent of three mature children. Dr. Hedberg provides understandable parenting advice in an easy to read book. The "Ask the Teacher" section in each chapter provides practical questions to integrate a child's home and school life. Joaquin Partida, Clovis, CA, Teacher of the Year, 2008, parent of two mature children.