Mary Ann Rodman

First-grader Haley wishes she were back having fun in kindergarten with her old teacher, until she finds out that first-grade is special, too.

In 1943, eleven-year-old Ellie is her brother Jimmy's "best girl," and when he leaves Pittsburgh just before Thanksgiving to fight in World War II, he promises he will return, asks her to leave the Christmas tree up until he does, and reminds her to "let the joy out."