David A. Adler; Illustrated by Sam Ricks

ACCESSIBLE SPORT: This title features a sport that kids can pick up anytime, anywhere, and without much practice or equipment. All they have to do is put on a pair of shoes and head outside!

THEODOR SEUSS GEISEL AWARD-WINNING SERIES: Don't Throw It to Mo! won the Geisel Award in 2016!

BACKSTORY: David was inspired to write about a little boy who loves sports in spite of not being a star athlete by his grandson, who has cerebral palsy and is a giant sports fan.

BY POPULAR DEMAND: The Young Cam Jansen and Bones series have been popular for years with teachers, parents, and kids at the transitional reader level (Level 3). David has often been asked to write a series for earlier readers. The Mo Jackson series fits the bill, and is perfect for young readers on the path to becoming fluent.

FILLING A NEED: Troubled by press coverage about the lack of diversity in children's literature, David was motivated to create an African American main character for beginning readers.

ADORABLE ART: Up-and-comer Sam Ricks has a dynamic, Nickelodeon-inspired style that is sure to catch kids' eyes and make them fall in love with Mo.

Please note that due to the recent change to Fountas & Pinnell's leveling system, RUN, MO, RUN! has been designated a Level 3/J reader rather than a Level 2 reader, like the rest of the series. The book will be printed with the appropriate branding for Level 3 readers.