Buy the Book
hardcover
e‑book
audio book
The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman
by Gennifer Choldenko
ages 10 and up
Knopf Books for Young Readers
ISBN 978–1‑5247–1892‑3
Synopsis
When eleven-year-old Hank’s mom doesn’t come home, he takes care of his toddler sister, Boo, like he always does. But it’s been a week now. They are out of food and mom has never stayed away this long … Hank knows he needs help, so he and Boo seek out the stranger listed as their emergency contact.
But asking for help has consequences. It means social workers, and a new school, and having to answer questions about his mom that he’s been trying to keep secret. And if they can’t find his mom soon, Hank and Boo may end up in different foster homes — he could lose everything.
This is a heart-wrenching, healing, and ultimately hopeful story about how complicated family can be. About how you can love someone, even when you can’t rely on them. And about the transformative power of second chances.
Resources
Awards and Recognition
- Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
- Indie Next List
- Amazon Best Children’s Books of 2024 so far (Jan-June 2024) ages 9–12
- Amazon Top 20 Children’s Book of 2024
- Audible 10 Best Kids’ Listens of 2024
Reviews
“A moving portrayal of the powerful bonds that connect him (Hank), an unwillingly parentified child, and the younger sibling who means everything to him … Hankies are a must.” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review)
“From the first line of Hank‘s engaging first-person narrative to the last, he comes across as a reliable, sensible boy who is aware that his options are few and is determined to make the right choices. Choldenko speaks from the heart in this compelling story of Hank and Boo’s found family.” (Booklist, starred review)
“Hank’s story will break readers’ hearts before putting them back together again. Highly recommended for all middle grade collections.” (School Library Journal, starred review)
“Readers will immediately be drawn into the world of The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman, whose endearing and memorable characters will inspire repeated readings. This book tackles a tricky subject with grace, showing readers that even seemingly hopeless situations can offer happy endings.” (BookPage, starred review)
“A gut-punch tale that is by turns heartbreaking and hopeful.” (Publishers Weekly)
“One of those rare and important books that belongs on every shelf.” (Katherine Applegate, Newbery Winner for The One and Only Ivan)