In this fast-paced, unpredictable story, a talented wrestler gives his all to win a worm charming competition. Ripley’s introduction to his new middle school is with his head held down in a toilet bowl by Dirk, the varsity football star. During his escape, Ripley inadvertently breaks Dirk’s nose and Dirk dedicates his life to retaliation. The only bright spot in Ripley’s life is his wrestling ability…well, that and a cute and kooky girl named Getty. But Getty is obsessed with winning a worm charming contest. Getty summons Ripley’s help in the town’s celebrated worm charming event because if they win the prize money, Getty and her mother will be able to stay in Hidden Mountain. Problem is, Dirk feels he is due the prize money. And he’ll do ANYTHING to get his hands on it, including blackmailing Ripley if he doesn’t sneak him some of the captured worms. Ripley must decide whether to stay loyal to his team or save his own skin. With all the challenges of physical intimidation, wrestling, worm charming and first love, Ripley must employ every mental and physical gift he has to stay on top. Worm charming is an actual contest where contestants beat on the ground to see how many worms come up. My challenge was to wrap a plot so tight around this strange contest that the number of worms coming to the surface becomes the most important thing in the world.