Andrew and Russ are best friends, obsessed with finding the legendary Jersey Devil that supposedly lives in the Pine Barrens, practically in their own backyards. They're even making a movie about their search for any sign of the mythical creature. But when Russ starts spending less time on their movie and more time with artsy, first-chair violinist Tara, Andrew feels the cracks in their friendship beginning to form. Suddenly, all of Andrew's favourite things are deemed too babyish for Russ, and Andrew is left trying to figure out where he belongs without his best friend by his side. Then a rash of Jersey Devil sightings excite their small town, and the boys are thrown back together by their friends on a fevered hunt. Can Andrew and Russ put aside their differences for one last chance to find the monster of their dreams? Or will the break in their friendship be too much to mend? Funny, refreshing and full of heart, The Big Break perfectly captures the unique combination of growing pains and childlike wonder that defines what it means to be in middle school.

Andrew and Russ are best friends, obsessed with finding the legendary Jersey Devil that supposedly lives in the Pine Barrens, practically in their own backyards. They're even making a movie about their search for any sign of the mythical creature. But when Russ starts spending less time on their movie and more time with artsy, first-chair violinist Tara, Andrew feels the cracks in their friendship beginning to form. Suddenly, all of Andrew's favourite things are deemed too babyish for Russ, and Andrew is left trying to figure out where he belongs without his best friend by his side. Then a rash of Jersey Devil sightings excite their small town, and the boys are thrown back together by their friends on a fevered hunt. Can Andrew and Russ put aside their differences for one last chance to find the monster of their dreams? Or will the break in their friendship be too much to mend? Funny, refreshing and full of heart, The Big Break perfectly captures the unique combination of growing pains and childlike wonder that defines what it means to be in middle school.

Heart is a precocious girl whose adorably energetic presence attracts everyone around her. She loves dressing up, playing with her Karlie and Ben dolls, and dreaming of the day she can finally get her ears pierced. Her best friend, Kat, shares her pal's hopes and dreams-and believes she'll someday marry Leonardo DiCaprio. Heart's mom, an overworked and underappreciated single mother, showers her girl with love, but resolutely resists Heart's attempts to find her a man. Mrs. Angelini rounds out the cast as the matriarch who takes care of Heart while Mom's at work.This first "Heart of the City" book collects strips from the cartoon's first successful year, a debut that attracted legions of loyal fans. Created by Mark Tatulli, "Heart of the City" has a gentle presence, exemplifying the sweet and sassy realities of modern, urban child-rearing.