Donna Gephart

Contest-crazed twelve-year-old Ben uses his wits and way with words in hopes of winning a prize that will keep his family from being evicted until his mother can pass her final CPA examination.

Death by Toilet Paper

Lynn Braden

Death by Toilet Paper is an excellent book. Benjamin Epstein's father died of cancer a year ago. On his deathbed, Ben's father tells him that he must assume the responsibility of taking care of Ben's mother. Since then, Ben's grandfather, who has memory issues, has moved in, and they are all about to be evicted from their apartment for being too far behind on their rent. Ben tries many things to help with the finances including selling candy bars at school and entering as many sweepstakes as he can in hopes of winning the jackpot. Along the way, Ben learns a lot about himself, his family, and his friends. Each chapter begins with a factoid about toilet paper and toilet use. This was a wonderful story that I read in one sitting because it was so well written. The emotions in the story are very intense and realistic, making this book even that much better.

Death by Toilet Paper

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