The Squints

About the Book

One month ago, Ethan Sweet was a typical kid, playing baseball and building a backyard tree house. Three weeks ago, a call in the middle of the night changed his young life forever. Two weeks ago, Ethan's grandfather died, leaving The Sweet Family Licorice Company to him. Three hours ago, Ethan stood on the metal balcony overlooking the production floor of the factory trying to figure out how to keep his family's company from closing. Ten minutes ago, Ethan met the Squints, whimsical creatures who live inside the licorice-making machines. Ethan must save the Squints from extinction, save the company from closing, and save the town, who depends on this company for their livelihood. Ethan gets a little help from his best friend Joe and three-year sister Emma who thinks she's a real princess.

About the Author

Melanie Shanks is a preschool teacher of eight years. The Squints is Melanie?s second children?s book. Her first book, THE MOUSE NAMED HERO, was published in 2005. Melanie is passionate about children?s literature, writing, and teaching. She lives in Westerville, Ohio with her husband, two daughters, and pet guinea pigs.