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by Ann Gregory Ward (Author), Thelma Muraida Ortiz (Illustrator), Kathy Gregory Fiala (Illustrator)
Since childhood, fun adventures seem to fall in Tessa Ann's lap, growing up in south central Texas just a few blocks from Maverick Elementary. The story unfolds on the first day of school when Tessa Ann arrives in her new third grade classroom of the well-loved third grade teacher, "small" Miss MacMurray. Her beloved teacher joyfully greets her and introduces her to a new student from another country who instantly becomes her favorite friend. Tessa Ann loves everything about new student, Safiya; her colorful dress, her homemade lunch with intriguing ingredients, her knowledge of world geography, and the fact that she could "crush it" in soccer. The girls' differences and similarities spark one adventure after another. From the classroom to the soccer field the girls discover newfound talents that enable them to rise above the unkind actions of "mean girl" Gail and the "giggle girls." A sudden twist at the end surprises everyone, showing them that sharing differences is the best adventure of all.
