This is the second story featuring Max and Duncan after Maxed Out

Max knows his mom can't afford to send him to summer camp. But he really, really wants to go. He needs a break from looking after his autistic brother, Duncan. And from his mom's new boyfriend. He is surprised when his mom says that he can go after all. But there's a catch. There are spots available at the camp for families with special needs. A grant would cover Duncan's fees, and Max could attend at no charge. If he goes as Duncan's escort.

This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read! The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.

Daphne Greer's profile page

• Joint winner, Hackmatack Children’s Choice Book Award
• Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens, starred selection

Daphne Greer has worked with children/ adults with special needs for many years, including at a summer camp much like the one in this book. Maxed Out, the first story featuring Max and his brother Duncan, was a 2013 yalsa Quick Picks nominee. Daphne’s books have been finalists for the Hackmatack and Silver Birch awards, as well as appearing on the Best Books for Kids & Teens list from the Canadian Children’s Book Centre. Daphne lives in Newport, Nova Scotia

"There's a lot packed into this slim book: lessons about compassion and understanding, likeable characters and a story that keeps the reader turning the pages to find out what happens next."

Atlantic Books Today

"Greer has crafted a useful book to promote the power of empathy, and hopefully Max's newfound understanding will carry over to her readers."

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"[Greer's] straightforward writing will appeal to kids who enjoy realistic fiction. Camped Out is also an easy read that will entice some reluctant readers. Kids will be able to identify with Max; like all of us, he has family struggles. But ultimately, he's just a normal kid. Recommended. "

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

"The writing is straightforward with uncomplicated, short sentences, but [the] plotline is immersive. Written between a third and fourth grade reading level, this [book] will particularly appeal to middle school hi-lo readers."

School Library Journal (SLJ)