Jigsaw Puzzle King, The

When Warren and Bennie start a new school, Warren worries that his twin brother’s Down syndrome will attract unwanted attention. In an attempt to avoid potential ridicule when Bennie is to perform at the school talent show for his unique jigsaw puzzle skills, Warren comes up with a plan to stop him…but at what cost? This story highlights the characters’ conflicting emotions, challenges, and strengths—delivering a powerful message about each of us, despite our challenges, being a piece of a puzzle that makes up a community. Suitable for an intermediate classroom, this book lends itself well for a collection with themes of valuing diversity, standing up against bullying, or having the courage to be oneself rather than worrying about being judged by others. Teachers may choose to read it aloud to the class or encourage students to explore it further in literature circles, novel studies, or independent reading.