This book documents the real-life story of Kendra Yoshinaga, a young speller who won her first qualifying bee at the young age of nine. Now only twelve years old, she prepared for her third bee and returned to Washington, DC where she tied for 14th in the 2006 Scripps National Spelling Bee! Gail Small taught Kendra for first, second, and third grades. Together they share a love of learning and discovery, and the challenges of new ideas. This book describes the spelling bee experiences from a youth's viewpoint. Young readers can delight in the world of spelling so it becomes a natural and exciting part of their lives. "Secrets" of a teacher, coach, and parent reveal proven tactics to foster a confident speller. These distinctive methods will inspire a love for spelling and language in lessons that go far beyond everyday practice.

Launch your students on an inspiring quest for knowledge—the words will jump off the pages as the illustrations enliven the story. This book will help them to enjoy the wonders of spelling bees along with the inside moments that only those at the bee have previously experienced. A detailed spelling guide is included for parents, coaches, and teachers of spellers at all ages.