The Jewel Next Door: The first pains of puppy love come full circle.

While sitting in his sandbox, Kevin feels the first twinges of the pain called love. What started as a spark for the girl next door quickly turns into a lifelong struggle for happiness that culminates in one thrilling, moving, life-changing moment that will determine the direction of his life forever.

As a school teacher and holder of a bachelor’s degree in human growth and development, I understand the interests of ＂tweens＂ and teens, and what it takes to hold their attention. I am also a father to two daughters, and have watched as they have become voracious readers in their own right. This short story has been a labor of love, and will be used in my classrooms for years to come. It is my hope that someone will give me the opportunity to share it with the masses. Writing is my hobby, and nothing would make me happier than to see others enjoy my work. This story is a great ＂read＂ for adults,＂tweens,＂ and teens alike.