Nothing but the Truth, by Avi
Phillip Malloy’s “D” grade in English prevents him from trying out for the school’s track team. He blames Miss Narwin, the freshman English teacher, for his failure so when he is transferred to her homeroom, he starts paying her back.
The school rule states that students are to stand in respectful silence while the national anthem is played. One morning, Phillip hums the tune. Miss Narwin asks him to stop, and he does. That night, Phillip tells his parents that his homeroom teacher yelled at him when he tried to sing the anthem.
Mr. Malloy expresses outrage, and Phillip feels encouraged to pursue his plan of attack. Phillip’s misbehavior escalates until he is suspended from school. At home, Phillip blames the whole thing on Miss Narwin and claims that she is just out to get him. Mr. Malloy contacts a neighbor running for school board.
The incident hits the local newspaper, is picked up by the news’ wires, and quickly becomes national news. Phillip, lauded as a hero, soon learns that there is little glory in revenge.
