• Age: 12 to 15
• Grade: 7 to 10
• Reading age: 12 to 15

There's one other thing I should mention right off, which is that I'm fourteen years old and dying. (I guess that was two things, but the significance of one is sort of tied to the other, don't you think?)ðKate Benchworth

Kate Benchworth is far from typical. Having been diagnosed with a brain tumour that could end her life at any time, she views the world with refreshing honesty and rare insight. As her family and members of her community struggle to accept what lies ahead, Kate refuses to give in to self-pity. Determined to live each moment to the fullest, she falls in love with a boy locked up in the local jail and befriends the town recluse.

Valerie Sherrard's new novel is a moving tale about a young woman experiencing the best days of her life, all the while aware that the time she has left is rapidly disappearing.

Valerie Sherrard first decided to become an author when she was in grade six! Her homeroom teacher that year, Mr. Alf Lower, praised and encouraged her efforts and instilled in her a lifelong belief in her ability to write. After producing about a dozen books for teens, Sherrard turned her hand to picture books. There’s a COW Under My Bed! introduces Oscar Ollie Brown, who will be embarking on his second adventure in There’s a Goldfish in my Shoe! in the fall of 2009. Since becoming a published author, Sherrard has enjoyed visiting many classrooms and libraries to speak to young people about writing, literacy, and most of all, finding and following your dreams. Born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Valerie has spent time in a number of provinces, including her current home of New Brunswick. She lives in Miramichi with her husband Brent and their four cats: Lilly, Thragg, Patootie and Cody.

Valerie Sherrard's profile page

• Short-listed, White Pine Award
• Short-listed, IODE Violet Downey National Book Award
• Commended, The Canadian Children's Book Centre Our Choice Selection

"If you have a young reader at home, a Sherrard novel is a good way to reinforce a reading habit."

Ottawa Sun

"…an emotionally honest story that will keep readers smiling through their tears."

Atlantic Books Today, Spring 2004

"…a moving, heartwarming story, with many insights to ponder."

Hi-Rise, April 2004

"…a sweet simple story of an adolescent girl in a small town in the 1960s who finds love, friendship and support in unlikely places."

Canadian Children's Book News, Winter 2004

"…an enchanting, poignant story which will have you smiling right up until the last moment, even through your tears."

The New Brunswick Reader

"…an easy read that might appeal to reluctant readers…well done."

VOYA, April 2004