Karen Day

Ruth Berglin first used her love for words and books to teach English as a Second Language and Title I Communications in the Moorhead School District. Many of Ruth’s fifth and sixth graders were sure that reading and words were not for them. After converting students for five years, Ruth became a stay-at-home mom. She squeezes writing in around homeschooling her two daughters, who are usually her first audience for a new story. Sometimes stories are just for fun; other times, they help Ruth to share her thoughts about something bigger—sibling rivalry, overcoming fears, controlling tempers, coping with illness.

Tall Tales
Wendy Lamb Books/Random House, 2007
ages 9 and up, ISBN 978-0-375-83773-9

Meg’s family has moved so often that it’s been hard for her to find a best friend. She starts sixth grade in a new town determined to change that. When she meets Grace Bennett, Meg realizes that she’s finally found the friend she’s always wanted.

But Meg has a secret about her family. She doesn’t want anyone to know, especially Grace. So Meg can’t resist telling fabulous stories about her family to Grace and the other kids. Even as the tall tales slip out of her mouth, she’s afraid that Grace will discover she’s been lying.

In Karen Day’s rewarding debut novel, Meg discovers that friendship is the key to telling the truth, and to a better life for her family.