Leslie Connor's The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle is praised for its heartfelt narrative and deeply authentic characters. Critics commend the empathetic portrayal of Mason's struggles with grief and learning disabilities. However, some note the pacing can be slow. Overall, it's an emotionally powerful and enlightening read for middle-grade audiences.

Readers who would enjoy The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle by Leslie Connor are likely fans of emotionally rich, character-driven middle-grade novels. Comparable to Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper, this book appeals to those who appreciate stories of perseverance, friendship, and overcoming adversity.

In The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle, Mason Buttle is a 12-year-old with learning disabilities who is mourning the loss of his friend Benny, whom he found dead in his family's orchard. Befriending Calvin Chumsky, Mason's life takes another turn when Calvin goes missing, triggering Mason to confront his fears and investigate the unfortunate events surrounding him.

Emotional / Challenging / Heartwarming / Inspirational / Mysterious

- The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle received the prestigious Schneider Family Book Award, which honors books that embody an artistic expression of the disability experience for child and adolescent audiences.
- Author Leslie Connor has shared that the character of Mason Buttle was partly inspired by people in her own life, aiming to portray authenticity in characters who face learning difficulties.
- The book was highlighted in School Library Journal as a poignant story offering insight into themes of resilience and friendship, often used in educational settings to discuss social and emotional learning.

**Mason Buttle**  
A 12-year-old middle schooler living on a family apple orchard, dealing with grief and learning disabilities including synesthesia, who seeks self-acceptance and confidence.

**Ms. Blinny**  
The school social worker who is supportive and introduces Mason to voice-to-text software to help him write, encouraging him through storytelling.

**Benny Kilmartin**  
Mason’s best friend since the first grade who shares a close bond with him before his untimely death the year before the main events of the story.

**Andy Kilmartin**  
Benny’s father and a carpenter, initially distancing himself from Mason following Benny's death due to grief.

**Lieutenant Baird**  
The police officer investigating Benny’s death, who often interacts with Mason about his memories of the day of the accident.

**Uncle Drum**  
Mason’s uncle and father figure, who takes care of the orchard and supports Mason throughout the story.

**Grandma**  
Mason’s grandmother, a supportive and loving figure who helps nurture the family through difficult times.

**Shayleen**  
A newcomer living in Mason’s old bedroom, initially misunderstood by Mason but connects with him over shared grief.

**Calvin Chumsky**  
Mason’s new friend, characterized by his small stature and curiosity, constantly learning about the world around him.

**Matt Drinker**  
A classmate and neighbor of Mason and Calvin, notorious for bullying and behavioral issues.

**Mrs. Drinker**  
Matt’s mother, who is kind to Mason and struggles to manage her son’s behavior.

**Moonie**  
The Drinker family’s dog, who is fond of Mason and eventually becomes his pet.

**Annalissetta Yang**  
A determined classmate with cerebral palsy, known for her independence and inspiration to Mason.

**Corey McSpirit**  
A friend of Matt and Lance, who is more understanding towards Mason and grapples with secrets he learns.

Leslie Connor

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-7 

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle Chapters 1-7  Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-15

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle Chapters 8-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-23

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle Chapters 16-23 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 24-31

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle Chapters 24-31 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 32-39

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle Chapters 32-39 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 40-47

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle Chapters 40-47 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 48-55

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle Chapters 48-55 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 56-64

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle Chapters 56-64 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 65-74

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle Chapters 65-74 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle Character Analysis

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Themes

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The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle

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