Playing the Cards You're Dealt (Scholastic Gold)

The story follows ten-year-old Anthony Joplin as he prepares to compete in a family spades tournament, a rite of passage for the Joplin men. With his best friend unavailable, he reluctantly teams up with Shirley, the new girl who challenges him with her confidence and card skills. As Anthony navigates his father's expectations and the pressures of secrecy, he discovers that family traditions can hold unexpected truths, leading to revelations that could impact their lives forever.