• Age: 9 to 12
• Grade: 4 to 7
• Reading age: 9 to 12

Laurel, caught up in the thrill of an investigation, is willing to risk her reputation to get the story, but her ultimate discovery changes everything.

Laurel discovers her passion for investigative journalism when she writes an article for her school paper about a person experiencing homelessness who's been living at the school. Eager to write more articles with impact, she launches an investigation of a cheating scam at her high school. Laurel's efforts cause her classmates to turn against her. Nobody is interested in seeing her article go to print, not even her own brother.

This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read! The epub edition of this title is fully accessible. Available in French as La triche.

After nearly 30 years as a published author, Kristin has written more biographies of herself than she cares to remember. And she has run out of new ways to describe the same old life. Besides, she doesn't think of herself in terms of her birthplace, education, and work history. What she'd really like people to know about her is that she loves to dance. She loves to laugh. She loves to learn. Crossword puzzles relax her. Waiting frustrates her. She likes spending time by herself. And, like the heroine in her new book Closer to Far Away, she has a family that gives her strength. Her books include Cheat, Girls Like Me, The Druid and the Dragon, and Alibi. Kristin lives in Campbell River, British Columbia.

Kristin Butcher's profile page

• Commended, Library Media Connection Editor's Choice
• Commended, Bank Street College of Education Children's Book Committee Best Children's Books of the Year
• Commended, Pennsylvania School Librarians Association (PSLA) Top Forty

"Short, quick chapters are propelled by frenetic action…True to life, this book does not offer a tidy, Pollyanna-ish conclusion; Laurel comes to learn from this experience a difficult lesson at a great expense. A speedy read."

Kirkus Reviews

"It was easy to get caught up in this book—enough suspense to keep the story moving briskly along. A good hi-low read for teens."

Puget Sound Council for Review of Children's Media

"A realistic portrayal of high school students' attitudes towards cheating…This is a well written narrative that will challenge readers to make a decision about what's right and what's wrong. Recommended."

School Library Connection (SLC)

"Butcher offers an insightful look into the ethics and morals of high school students...The short book really lends itself to a good discussion."

Pennsylvania School Librarians Association (PSLA) Top Forty

"Well suited to its intended audience…With its succinct text, short chapters, and emphasis on contemporary teen issues, Cheat should be popular with reluctant young adult readers….Recommended."

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

"Butcher's portrayal of high school cheating is believable, with actual consequences...The pacing will keep reluctant readers hooked until the very end."

School Library Journal (SLJ)