Secrets of a Summer Spy

Ronnie, 13, and Jimmy, 14, live on Harbor Island year-round, but they always anticipate the summertime visits from their friend Amy and her family. This summer, however, Amy--who is Ronnie's age--is different: she is vain, self-centered and constantly flirting with Jimmy. Ronnie is confused and lonely, and finds herself spending more and more time with old Mrs. Peet, a widow who lives with her family of cats. Though the ``Clamdiggers''--as the friends call themselves--spend the summer fishing, waterskiing and spying on neighbors, just as they did when they were younger, Ronnie realizes that they are all growing and changing. When Mrs. Peet dies, Ronnie understands that nothing lasts forever, but that she can still hold on to precious memories. Jones's first novel begins credibly, but becomes bogged down in a contrived plot with one-dimensional characters. Still, Ronnie is a likable protagonist, and readers may enjoy sharing in the events of her summer. Ages 10-14. (Mar.)