The Tent - Gary Paulsen

A stolen Bible from a cheap motel, an old army tent, and some phony preaching. That's all it takes to turn Cory's life of poverty into bags of money. His son, Steven, is at first embarrassed by the way his father dupes faithful country folks into giving him money, but eventually he learns to love the hustle. How long can their desperate charade last? A sincere and thoughtful story about spiritual growth.--The Bulletin. \nTeenage Steven and his father, Corey, take to the road with a Bible, an old army tent, and less than the best of intentions. Tired of being poor, Steven's father is certain that preaching the Word of the Lord is the easy way to fame and fortune. But just when they've got their act down pat and the money is rolling in, Steven and Corey begin to realize that what they'd originally thought of as a harmless lie is all about avarice and power and, ultimately, guilt. \n Each book includes a reader's guide.