The Brilliant Fall of Gianna Z.
by Kate Messner · Grade 4-7 · Ages Ages 9-12
Gianna Zales has a lot going on: a big science leaf-collection project, cross-country running, friends, family, and a messy life at home. To finish her project on time, she has to pay closer attention to the world around her—and to the people she loves.
Key vocabulary
Very bright, clever, or wonderful. A brilliant fall day might be full of glowing leaves and sunshine.
A sample of something used for study. A leaf in a science project can be a specimen.
Having to do with plants. A botanical drawing shows parts of a plant carefully.
Sorting things into groups by what they have in common. Scientists use classification to organize leaves, animals, and rocks.
The time when something must be finished. If your project is due Friday, Friday is the deadline.
A sport where runners race over fields, trails, or hills instead of around a track. It takes strong legs and steady breathing.
A folder or collection of work. Gianna’s leaf project is like a portfolio of the leaves she studies.
Not giving up, even when something is hard. Determination helps you keep going one step at a time.