A living legend roosting in the backyard. An unmissable game. A hair-raising mystery. A road trip full of adventure and danger. And all the overlapping circles that connect us throughout Creation.

Melanie “Mel” Roberts and Ray Halfmoon may be from different Indigenous Nations, but the friends have become like siblings since the Robertses moved in with the Halfmoons. And they soon welcome a distinguished guest: Great-grandfather Bat, whose wing is injured, has taken refuge in their old oak tree.

A rematch of the legendary Great Ball Game is coming up, with Bat as the star player. Grampa Charlie Halfmoon offers to drive Bat from Chicago down to the traditional playing field outside Macon, Georgia, and Mel and Ray are determined to help out.

Together, they all set off on a road trip—facing adventure, danger, and a hair-raising mystery—on the way to the historic game.

With loving care and boisterous humor, acclaimed author Cynthia Leitich Smith (Muscogee) tells a modern folklore story about friendship, embracing the unexpected, and all the overlapping circles that connect us throughout Creation. Perfect for fans of Kate DiCamillo, Brian Young, and Elana K. Arnold!

But can this unlikely team get their legendary friend to the historic game on time?

Indigenous Characters: Join Mel (Muscogee) and Ray (Cherokee Nation) on an adventure that celebrates contemporary Native families, friendship, and culture.
Modern Folklore: Meet Great-grandfather Bat, a living legend from traditional stories who needs help getting to the rematch of the Great Ball Game.
Found Family: Discover the power of found family as Mel, Ray, and Grampa Halfmoon band together to protect their extraordinary new friend on his vital mission.
Talking Animals: Laugh along with a cast of unforgettable talking animals, from the famous Bat to a plucky squirrel who just might save the day.
Authentic Storytelling: From bestselling Muscogee author Cynthia Leitich Smith, this heartfelt story is a perfect read for fans of Kate DiCamillo and Brian Young.

On a Wing and a Tear

On a Wing and a Tear