cover image The First Hard Times

The First Hard Times

Doris Buchanan Smith. Puffin Books, $3.95 (144pp) ISBN 978-0-14-034538-4

Smith's moving story demonstrates that links to the past need not obstruct present relationships, as Ancil learns to adjust to a stepfather and a new town while not wanting to forget her MIA father. Ages 8-12. (Oct.)