Dear Edward

by Ann Napolitano

Edward follows the man’s back through the crowded hall, then up two sets of stairs, then down another hall. Here, the kids look swollen and distorted, and Edward realizes they’re on a high school floor. The boys’ voices are louder and deeper, and when two kids mock-tackle each other near him, Edward flinches. Students lower their voices, though, and straighten up when they notice the principal. Several say hello, then give Edward a look. Principal Arundhi turns in to a room with a mottled-glass door. When the door closes behind them, the clamor of the hallway is muffled. The room and windowsill are lined with plants of various sizes, and more greenery hangs from the ceiling. Some have fat leaves, others are spindly and tall; two have small pink flowers. The air smells like moist dirt. The desk, in the center of this greenhouse, looks like a mistake.

I am deeply fond of Principal Arundhi. I didn't know he was going to be in the novel. When he tapped Edward's shoulder on the first day of school, I was surprised, but it made sense to me that the principal would seek out a kid in Edward's situation on his first day. And then when they entered his office and it was filled with plants, I thought, Who is this man? He was so lovely, and so very kind; I'm glad he showed up.