Spelling It Out
Spelling It Out by Margaret Finnegan, published by Simon and Schuster on May 13, 2025, is a middle grade novel that follows a rising seventh grader, Ben Bellini, as he embarks on a summer of spelling bee training with his grandmother in San Francisco. As Ben prepares for the Scripps National Spelling Bee, he grapples with unexpected challenges, including his growing concerns about his grandmother’s memory and well-being.
In this 208-page book, readers will find a blend of humor and compassion as Ben navigates his ambitions and family dynamics. The story explores themes of growing up, family life, and friendship, highlighting Ben’s interactions with his grandmother and fellow competitor Asha Krishnakumar. As he balances his pursuit of spelling glory with the realities of his grandmother’s condition, Ben learns important lessons about responsibility and self-discovery.
Official synopsis Publisher
A rising seventh grader visits his grandmother in San Francisco for a whirlwind summer of spelling bee training, only to begin suspecting she has Alzheimer’s, in this witty and compassionate middle grade novel for fans of Al Capone Does My Shirts.
Ben Bellini didn’t mean to become a champion speller—after all, he’s not a nerd—but he sure does like spelling bee glory now that it’s found him. He might even be good enough for the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, DC! And what better way to prepare than to train with a professional spelling coach in San Francisco, where his nan lives?
Through his adventures, Ben gets to know the city—and competitor Asha Krishnakumar, who’s equally determined to spell her way to victory. But Ben also starts having odd interactions with his nan that leave him feeling like he’s missing something. Where is Nan’s forgetfulness coming from? And will anyone even believe him if he tries to get help?
Between showing up for his loved ones and pursuing his own dreams, Ben will need to spend this summer figuring out what he owes others…and what he owes himself.
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “Spelling It Out” about?
Who is the author of “Spelling It Out”?
When was “Spelling It Out” published?
What is the ISBN for “Spelling It Out”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
