The Story

A Lesson in Being Honest

This is a lesson in how Billy Thomas learns the importance of being honest while facing the consequences of telling an untruth, a story.

Billy Thomas loves baseball and often daydreams of playing outside when he should be listening to his teacher. One day when his teacher, Miss Graves, assigns his class a book report, he picks a book about baseball. But, he forgets to read his chosen book. Caught without a clue, he tells his teacher and his classmates a wild yarn about a famous dual-sport hero who plays baseball and has a background in rodeo. Burdened by guilt, Billy faces a tough choice. He must either admit the truth and tell everyone he told a “story”; or try writing a report on a book that doesn’t exist thereby telling another fib. Join him on a journey of honesty and integrity in this heartwarming children’s tale.

2025 Spur Finalist Award
from Western Writers of America
Best Children’s Picture Book

Will Rogers Medallion Award Winner

Western Fiction – Young Readers/Illustrated

“I truly enjoyed this project, and thank you sincerely for the opportunity. I endorse it, also, as a good read for our young readers.”

The Story is delightfully told in a simple manner that teaches a lesson in honesty in a way elementary students can understand. Adults will recall when they learned their own lesson, and children will understand the problem with not being honest. It is a delightful story! Perfect for elementary students. Well done!”

“I thoroughly enjoyed The Story and appreciate the book emphasizing the importance of positive values and morals. The Story is not only beautifully written and illustrated, but it spurred rich conversation with my children regarding truthfulness.”

“Drawn from personal experience, this book teaches children the important lesson that being truthful far outweighs the feelings of guilt that come from being dishonest.”

“I like how the story helps me remember it is important to tell the truth.”