The third book in the Schneider Award Honor-winning series Katherine Applegate has called “tender and important,” by National Book Award finalist Elana K. Arnold.

Bixby Alexander Tam (nicknamed Bat) has been the caretaker for Thor, the best skunk kit in the world…but the last day of third grade is quickly approaching, and Thor is almost ready to be released into the wild.

The end of school also means that Bat has to say good-bye to his favorite teacher, and he worries about the summer care of Babycakes, their adorable class pet. Not only that, but his best friend is leaving for a long vacation in Canada.

Summer promises good things, too, like working with his mom at the vet clinic and hanging out with his sister, Janie. But Bat can’t help but feel that everything is coming to an end.

National Book Award finalist Elana K. Arnold returns with the third story starring an unforgettable boy on the autism spectrum.

Elana K. Arnold’s Bat series is a proven winner in the home and classroom—kids love these short illustrated young middle grade books. Other books in the Bat series include A Boy Called Bat, Bat and the Waiting Game, and Bat and the Business of Ferrets.

How does a boy who loves routine and animals say goodbye to everything at once?

• An Autistic Protagonist: Readers will love Bat, a gentle and observant boy who feels things deeply and finds comfort in caring for animals and his love for routine.
• A Heartfelt Animal Story: Bat must prepare the beloved skunk kit, Thor, for release back into the wild, a task that tests his heart and courage.
• A Touching Friendship Story: With his best friend Israel leaving for a long summer vacation, Bat must navigate the changing seasons of friendship.
• Learning to Say Goodbye: From his favorite teacher to his cherished pet, Bat confronts the bittersweet challenge of endings and the promise of new beginnings.