Eva and her classmates are planning a fundraiser to help a student purchase a "wing-chair" to help with her physical disability. But the two groups of classmates soon find themselves competing against each other to "win" the most fundraising dollars, forgetting all about the good intentions behind the project.

This is another short and sweet book in the Owl Diaries series. This series is very popular among young elementary school students, and it's easy to see why. It is a chapter book, which can make children feel accomplished after reading it, but the chapters are short and chockful of colorful illustrations. And it's a series that can really be read in any order, as each book's first chapter gives a brief overview of Eva and her life (including the full cast of characters).

While the handling of a child with a disability is maybe not the most deftly done here, it's still good to see the representation. And, don't get me wrong, it's not a terrible depiction -- it's just that the disability is more of an impetus for the plot than a hard look at what that child's struggles may be. It's nice to see the other characters working together toward a common goal, even if they do get off track a little bit, and everyone being understanding and accepting of the child with a disability. There are other positive traits shown throughout the book, such as strong family ties, polite asking of favors, and general sharing in good fortune.

The book ends with a few questions to test reading comprehension. Overall, this is a solid read for youngsters. ( )