About the Book
When her father begins a long-distance romance with a zookeeper from Washington, D.C., twelve-year-old Frankie loses it. She sends fabricated e-mails to the zookeeper in an attempt to sabotage the relationship. But when the zookeeper responds with wise and witty letters about protecting territory, shunning outsiders, and rebuilding a home, Frankie begins an honest and prickly correspondence that deals with family, friendship, and growing up.

“Her nonstop, exponentially compounded missteps make a humdinger of a story. Admirers of Sharon Creech will sign right up for this one.”—The Bulletin

“Middle-graders looking for a realistic summer read with laughs and a few misty-eyed moments won’t be disappointed.”"—Kirkus Reviews

Mary Amato is known for her comic middle grade novels, including EDGAR ALLAN’S OFFICIAL CRIME INVESTIGATION NOTEBOOK, THE WORD EATER and the Riot Brothers series. She writes, teaches tap dancing, and enjoys playing music in Maryland, where she lives with her husband and two sons. For more about Mary, click here.

AWARDS

Mark Twain Award Master List
Sequoyah Children’s Book Award Master List
Volunteer State Book Award Mast Reading List (Gr. 6-8)
William Allen White Children’s Book Award Master List (Gr. 6-8)

About the Author
Mary Amato

Readers' Guide
NAKED MOLE RAT LETTERS, THE
Features questions for further discussion and a behing-the-scenes look at the novel with author Mary Amato.