A Newbery Honor Book and ALA Notable Children’s Book from the New York Times–bestselling author of Stargirl and Maniac Magee.

In Palmer LaRue’s hometown of Waymer, turning ten is the biggest event of a boy’s life. But for Palmer, his tenth birthday is not something to look forward to, but something to dread. Then one day, a visitor appears on his windowsill, and Palmer knows that this, more than anything else, is a sign that his time is up. Somehow, he must learn how to stop being afraid and stand up for what he believes in.

Wringer is a powerful tour de force from Newbery Medal winner Jerry Spinelli.

“Deeply felt. Presents a moral question with great care and sensitivity.” —The New York Times

“A spellbinding story about rites of passage.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“A realistic story with the intensity of a fable.” —The Horn Book (starred review)

“Spinelli’s characters are memorable, and they are involved in a plot that, from the first page, is riveting. A wide audience will enjoy this thought-provoking book.” —School Library Journal (starred review)

“A story both comic and disturbing, this is lit by Palmer’s growing courage.” —Kirkus Reviews

“There is action and gentleness and also much to think about in Spinelli’s novel.” —Booklist (starred review)