Rob Buyea is the creative force behind the Mr. Terupt series. His latest release, Carter Avery’s Tricky Fourth-Grade Year, invites young readers to explore the challenges and triumphs of an extraordinary fourth grader named Carter Avery. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking their next middle-grade adventure!

In this engaging story, we meet Carter, a student who seems destined for trouble in the eyes others. As Carter grapples with his reputation and the whirlwind of emotions that come with navigating friendships and school dynamics, he discovers the power of empathy, courage, and standing up for what’s right.

Kid’s Book Buzz staff got to talk to Rob about his inspirations for this story, the relatable characters that populate Carter’s world, and the important lessons woven throughout this heartfelt narrative. 

What inspired you to write Carter Avery’s Tricky Fourth-Grade Year?

I’d been thinking about schools and teachers and feeling discouraged because it seems it’s always the negative stories that make the news. Having been a teacher, I know better. At the same time, my wife and I had a few friends who were pregnant. We’d been chatting about one of them just before I went for a run. While I was out on that run, these two worlds came crashing together. I had Carter’s voice and his entire first page written in my head before I got back home. Those sentences grabbed hold of me and wouldn’t let go.

Carter Avery is a fourth grader facing various challenges. How did you develop Carter’s character, and what do you hope readers will learn from his experiences?

Carter is bits and pieces of many of my former students, kids I went to school with, myself, and plenty of imagination, all glued together. I hope readers see how everybody has strengths—and challenges. And that sometimes all a person needs is a chance.

What was the most enjoyable part of writing Carter Avery’s Tricky Fourth-Grade Year?

There were many, but the cast of adult characters comes to mind. I love Grams’s old-time sayings, the bus rides with Mr. Wilson, and the many surprises with Ms. Krane. But Missy Gerber added her share of fun too.

Are there any personal experiences or real-life situations that influenced the plot or characters?

I spent a number of years teaching elementary school. During that time, I tried a lot of projects, met many wonderful students, and experienced plenty of twists and turns along the way. The end result: I’ve been left with a treasure trove of incredible school memories, which continue to help me with every book I write.

Did any of it actually happen? That is a question I get for all of my books. I always joke with students and answer, “Yes. Sort of. But not really.” I take a memory and add creativity to it, changing what was real so that it is better in my stories. This is when I have fun as a writer.

What challenges did you face while writing this book, and how did you overcome them?

Lieutenant Boss’s character and how to have him handle the classroom and Carter in Ms. Krane’s absence was a challenge. How did I overcome it? Revising. That’s the answer for how I figure out most things in my writing.

Are there any particular messages or morals you hope young readers take away from Carter’s story?

I hope Carter’s story can be a reminder to readers that we should give people a chance and get to know them before passing judgment. I also like Ms. Krane’s words when she tells Carter, “Making someone else feel bad is never a good way to make yourself feel better. On the contrary, helping others can be very rewarding.”

Did you have any particular audience in mind when writing the book, and how do you think it will resonate with them?

Third and fourth-grade teachers and students. I think Carter is a great read-aloud. Like all of my books, Carter Avery is sure to make readers laugh but also ask questions. It is a book certain to foster important conversations.

Can you share any insights into your writing process? Do you have any routines or rituals that
help you get into the flow?

I like a spot that is well-lit and a comfortable temperature, that has space to spread out and room for my cup of coffee. If I have that, then I can do my work anywhere. As I often tell students, I give myself a daily reminder that whatever I write, it’s never perfect the first time. That reminder helps me stop worrying if I don’t have everything figured out when I start. Inevitably, once I get going, that is what helps me come up with ideas and weave the story together. It also explains why revising is most of my work, but that doesn’t scare me.

Were there any specific authors or books that influenced your writing style or the way you approached Carter Avery’s Tricky Fourth-Grade Year?

I could provide a specific answer to this question for some of my other books, but not Carter Avery. That being said, I like this question because nobody but a reader becomes a writer. I first heard Richard Peck speak those words—and he was right. Reading the many wonderful books written by my friends and colleagues always excites me as a writer.

Can you give us a hint about any future projects or books you’re working on? Will they be in a similar vein, or are you exploring new genres or themes?

I’m working on a new school story told from multiple points of view. The kids are the stars, but guest starring is a dynamic student teacher—someone my readers will recognize. I’m very excited about this project!