Death by Toilet Paper

Gr 5–8—Since seventh-grader Benjamin Epstein lost his father to cancer last year, things have been difficult for Ben and his mother. Medical expenses have cleaned out the family's savings, and her job as a waitress doesn't bring in enough money to cover their rent. Ben's mom has one more expensive test to take to earn her CPA license and start a new job, but in the meantime, they are facing eviction. Ben, an experienced sweepstakes enthusiast, discovers a contest sponsored by the Royal-T toilet paper company with a $10,000 grand prize, and he knows this could be the solution to his family's problems. Compounding those troubles are a bully at school and Ben's grandfather, Zeyde Jake, who has Alzheimer's and comes to live with Ben and his mom. Ben is a determined, likable character whom readers will doggedly root for, and Gephart infuses his story with humor and heart as she tenderly explores issues of grief, loss, family, and friendship. What's more, the amusing ending—featuring a zombie bride in a toilet paper wedding dress—will leave everyone satisfied. Fun facts and trivia about toilets and toilet paper appear at the start of each chapter.—Lauren Strohecker, McKinley Elementary School, Abington School District, PA