Jane Peeler is about to embark on a summer ritual: the family car trip. Even with her irritable, chain-smoking grandmother coming along, Jane is excited to be on her way. But during a stop at a gas station, Jane meets Marty - a kind, penniless, old man with a problem: how will he get to his brother's memorial service in Schenectady the next day? Jane knows what her mother would do . . .

Jane's plan leads the Peeler family on a hilarious detour to get their newest passenger, and themselves, to their destination on time.

• Our Choice, Canadian Children's Book Centre, 2000
• Short listed, Ontario Silver Birch Award, 2000
• Short listed, Tiny TORGI Award, 2000

“A rollicking great read…” - Children's Bookwatch

“There are moments. . . that are snort-out-loud funny.” - City Parent

“A hilarious account of a family’s car trip that captures the tradition, friction, and inevitable detours that accompany this annual summer ritual…At times the dialogue is so snappy that one senses there is a well-choreographed play just beneath the surface of the novel.” – Quill & Quire

"..a wonderfully light and funny story with unforgettable characters. Younger children in grade 2 through 4 will undoubtedly enjoy the ride." - Lethbridge Herald