Raising the Roof (Girls Know How)

Girls Know How® books spotlight careers and how readers can achieve anything to which they set their minds. With a focus on construction, "Raising the Roof" tells the story of fifth-grade friends Tori, Angie and Kelly who, after losing their clubhouse to a rival neighborhood group of boys, are inspired by Lucinda Alvarez, the head of a major construction company (a character based on Linda Alvarado, President of Alvarado Construction, Colorado) to build their own. The girls get a first-hand look at a construction company, and roll up their sleeves preparing blueprints, work schedules and budgets to build their own place. But stormy weather, differences of opinion and the boys’ attempts to undermine their efforts test their friendship. They not only learn valuable construction skills, they learn about teamwork, earn the respect and friendship of the boys and realize their dreams. Inspired by their accomplishments, they invite their families and friends to join them on their next venture, spending their summer vacation working on a Habitat for Humanity project. A bio and exclusive interview with Ms. Alvarado, career building worksheet and blueprint activity are included to guide readers wishing to learn more about construction.