1991 first edition (mfg. code 10-1); Delacorte Press publishers; Weekly Reader Book Club; illustrated by Jacqueline Rogers; very good condition with unmarked pages; boards very good; no dust jacket.
 
description -
The Blossom family has an especially eventful weekend during which Junior Blossom loses the school hamster and Pap's dog Mud is put on trial for the hamster's murder!"Byars captures the conflict and tension of courtroom drama, the ups and downs of personal relationships, and the rewards of lasting friendships."-- "School Library Journal," starred review.

An ALA Notable Children's Book, A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year, Edgar Allan Poe Mystery Writers Award, A Child Study Children's Book Committee: Children's Book of the Year, A Junior Literary Guild Selection.