Two Truths and a Lionel

Ages 13 And Up, Grades 8 And Up

Perfect for fans of Justin A. Reynolds and Talia Hibbert, this comedic romp explores the social hierarchy of high school, the ego of a teenage boy, and the meaning of “the truth will set you free.”

After his cat eats his ex–best friend Mickey’s fish, Lionel is forced to go with her to a local pet store to buy a replacement. While there, a fire spreads through the shop. Both Mickey and Lionel manage to escape in the nick of time—but Lionel couldn't tell you that from his own memory; he just wakes up outside the pet store after passing out.The next day at school, attention buzzes around Lionel, scoring him "that's the guy" looks from strangers. Even his longtime crush, Josefina, is giving him the time of day. Lionel soon learns that security footage of the fire has been circulating—and it paints Lionel as the one who saved the day at the pet store. Unfortunately, Lionel has no recollection of the events, but him being the hero isn't quite adding up. For Lionel, who has always wanted to be more like his grandfather—the late, great Hollywood action star—he's basically struck popularity gold. Not wanting to give up this newfound fame, his crush's attention, and a chance to feel an ounce of what it must've felt like to be his grandfather, he dives headfirst into herodom.As Lionel's popularity grows, so does his anxiety about his lie. Between catching feelings for Mickey, a TV reporter wanting to showcase his story on national television, and a mysterious newcomer who somehow knows more about the pet store incident than Lionel would like, Lionel starts to wonder if the truth will really set him free...or will it cost him everything?

About the Author

Brian Wasson is an educator who is motivated by helping kids see the power of reading, writing, and thinking critically in a diverse, fast-changing world. Previously an editor for nine years at two major newspapers in North Carolina, he holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism and a Master of Arts in English. He spends much of his free time listening to audiobooks, applying for grant funding for his classroom, and dozing off to random Netflix shows. He currently lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, with his wife and muse-in-residence, Ashly, and their two children. Learn more about Brian at brianwassonbooks.com.