CHAPTER 11

Sofia’s cheeks got hot, and she felt panicky inside.

“Uh . . .” she said. “I learned it at the library . . . Thought it might help . . . It was an emergency . . .”

She waited for the laughter to start. But there was no laughter. Instead, Miss Greer put her hand on Sofia’s shoulder and smiled.

“Oh, Sofia!” said Miss Greer. “That’s it!”

“That’s what?” asked Sofia.

“An emergency!” said Miss Greer. “A library emergency!”

She left the room and returned with the school librarian, Mrs. Catherine Bookbinder.

Mrs. Bookbinder was one of Sofia’s favorite people at Blue River Creek Elementary. She taught all the kids how to do research, and she read books with them. She helped them in the school makerspace, too. She was a great listener and always had the perfect book for everyone. Finding just the right book for just the right person at just the right time was Mrs. Bookbinder’s superpower.

Mrs. Bookbinder also loved hats. She always had the right hat for the right occasion. Her hat collection hung on hooks around the entire library. At the moment, she wore a black fedora with a card stuck into the band. The card said PRESS.

“Miss Greer told me about your newspaper problem,” she said. “I’ve got some great books and resources to help, but our public library has an amazing collection of papers you need to see. I’ve already talked to Mr. Page. He’ll expect you this afternoon.”

“Pack your snacks, class,” said Miss Greer. “We’re going on a field trip!”