More than anything, Ida Bidson wants to become a teacher. To do that, she must finish eighth grade, then go on to high school. But her dream falters when the one-room school in her remote Colorado town shuts down. Her only hope is to keep the school open without anyone finding out. Yet even a secret school needs a teacher. Ida can’t be it. . . . Or can she?

In the spirit of The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle, Newbery Medal winner Avi creates an inspiring story of a headstrong girl determined to control her own destiny.

She has a plan, but can she convince her classmates—and keep it all a secret from the adults?

• Historical Fiction for Kids: Step back to 1925 Colorado, a time of Model T Fords, rural schoolhouses, and big dreams in a small mountain valley.
• One-Room Schoolhouse: When their teacher has to leave, Ida and her seven classmates must find a way to keep their beloved school from shutting down for good.
• Inspiring Girl Protagonist: Follow 14-year-old Ida Bidson, a determined and resourceful girl who refuses to give up on her dream of an education—even if she has to become the teacher herself.
• A Tale of Self-Reliance: A heartfelt story about friendship, community, and the courage it takes to forge your own path when the rules are against you.