Saving Eric

Ten-year-old Clayton Matthews knows exactly what he wants: a microphone, a television audience, and a chance to make the whole world laugh. Until then, trading jokes and sandwiches with his best friend, Eric, in their favorite tree is a pretty good start. Then an ambulance turns toward Eric's street. With his grandmother in the hospital, Eric moves into Clayton's house. Clayton thinks having his best friend under the same roof will make everything easier. But Eric misses home, worries about his grandmother, and faces questions nobody can answer. Even Clayton's best jokes can't make those worries disappear. When a television audition puts Clayton's big dream within reach, he can barely think about anything else. Between rehearsals, a school project, and promises he struggles to keep, he starts missing the things Eric isn't saying. Soon, the friend who has always cheered him on begins pulling away… Clayton wants to make everything better. But before he can help Eric, he'll have to listen. Set in small-town Missouri, "Saving Eric" is a warm, funny, and heartfelt middle grade novel for readers ages 9–12 about friendship, belonging, and learning how to show up for the people we love.