Raymie Nightingale

Written by Kate DiCamillo

Part of the Three Rancheros series

A girl enters a pageant hoping to reunite her family, but unexpected friendships change everything.

4.0 Goodreads · 23,093 ratings

263 pages· 33,354 words· Est. 3.5 hour read· 550L

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Raymie Clarke believes winning the Little Miss Central Florida Tire competition will bring her father back. But with the unpredictable Louisiana Elefante and the rebellious Beverly Tapinski as rivals, Raymie's plan faces hurdles. As the contest nears, the trio's shared struggles forge an unexpected bond, leading them to confront loneliness and loss. Can their newfound friendship help them rescue each other in ways they never imagined? Discover how a simple plan transforms into a summer of unforgettable challenges and connections.

From the publisher

A 2016 National Book Award Finalist!

Two-time Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo returns to her roots with a moving, masterful story of an unforgettable summer friendship.

Raymie Clarke has come to realize that everything, absolutely everything, depends on her. And she has a plan. If Raymie can win the Little Miss Central Florida Tire competition, then her father, who left town two days ago with a dental hygienist, will see Raymie’s picture in the paper and (maybe) come home. To win, not only does Raymie have to do good deeds and learn how to twirl a baton; she also has to contend with the wispy, frequently fainting Louisiana Elefante, who has a show-business background, and the fiery, stubborn Beverly Tapinski, who’s determined to sabotage the contest. But as the competition approaches, loneliness, loss, and unanswerable questions draw the three girls into an unlikely friendship — and challenge each of them to come to the rescue in unexpected ways.