Ruby's Star

Things have been difficult for Ruby lately. Her dad left long ago, and her mom is so down that she can hardly get out of bed some days, which means it's up to Ruby to take care of her younger brother. As a result, she can't always go to school—and when she does go, she just seems to end up in trouble. And forget about her real dream, learning to skateboard. There will never be money or time for it.
But Ruby's life changes when Mister P. floats down one day in a hot air balloon. Though Ruby is at first reluctant to be friends, she can't ignore Mister P.—he is a polar bear, after all! With his silly and gentle polar bear ways, huge heart, and plenty of slapstick humor, he teaches Ruby that she doesn't have to take care of everyone on her own—it's OK to let others help sometimes. Ruby is amazed by the number of people willing to lend a hand, and how even a small amount of support can make a big difference.
Full of lively art and fun formatting. Readers will wish for their own polar bear ally!

Maria Farrer trained as a speech therapist and teacher and has worked in hospitals and schools. She later completed an MA in writing for young people. She has had several books published for young readers. She lives in Somerset, United Kingdom.
Daniel Rieley is a British freelance illustrator based in Lisbon, Portugal.

Praise for Me and Mister P.:
"Warm and silly . . . reminiscent of Michael Bond's "Paddington Bear" books . . . a charming story." --School Library Journal
"[N]umerous half- and full-page illustrations are a hilarious accompaniment to a tale that for the most part doesn't take itself too seriously. . . . Useful as bibliotherapy for siblings and classmates of children with autism, this effort also crosses over to readers who enjoy fantastical animal tales." --Kirkus Reviews