SPELLING IT OUT, By Margaret Finnegan, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, May 13, 2025, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)
A boy visits his Nan in San Francisco for spelling bee training, only to begin suspecting her forgetfulness is more than a quirk in Spelling It Out, by Margaret Finnegan.
Ben Bellini didn’t mean to become a champion speller—after all, he’s not a nerd—but he sure does like spelling bee glory now that it’s found him. He might even be good enough for the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, DC! And what better way to prepare than to train with a professional spelling coach in San Francisco, where his nan lives?
Through his adventures, Ben gets to know the city—and competitor Asha Krishnakumar, who’s equally determined to spell her way to victory. But Ben also starts having odd interactions with his nan that leave him feeling like he’s missing something. Where is Nan’s forgetfulness coming from? And will anyone even believe him if he tries to get help?
Between showing up for his loved ones and pursuing his own dreams, Ben will need to spend this summer figuring out what he owes others…and what he owes himself. —Synopsis provided by Atheneum Books for Young Readers
On its face, Spelling It Out is a book about a spelling, but it is so much more.
At the center of the story is Ben, a small kid who has finally found his “thing.” Sure, spelling is a bit nerdy, but he’s good at it — so good he makes it to a California regional bee without even trying. Who knows what he could accomplish with a little effort? So, when he gets the chance to study with a former national champion and gain some freedom from his overbearing parents, Ben heads to San Francisco.
Ben’s Nan is a respected retired architect. But from the time of his arrival, things feel a bit off. Nan’s house is cluttered, she forgets silly things and she gets more confused with each passing day.
Meanwhile, Ben’s spelling coach isn’t what he expected, and his new friend is facing struggles of her own.
In Margaret Finnegan’s deft hands, Ben comes to life. Finnegan knows her main character and his voice is strong. He’s got just a tiny bit of snark that makes for the best kind of storyteller. And as Ben’s summer progresses, you want everything to work out for him.
Finnegan’s decision to set Spelling It Out in 1980s San Francisco is smart. It takes the computer element out of the equation and adds a bit of depth. Ben and his family feel real and rooted.
Spelling It Out is a strong exploration of self-discovery, pushing boundaries, setting goals and knowing when to ask for help.
*Attention, word nerds! Check out these fun activities for Spelling It Out!
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