The Secret Language of the Sb

When his mother brings home one of her ``problem children'' from the adoption agency where she works, fourth-grader Adam is not very pleased. After all, Susan is from Taiwan, can hardly speak English and is suddenly in his classroom as well as being part of the family. But before long, a special friendship develops as Adam helps Susan learn to read and gain self-confidence and in turn gets help from her--Susan's openness teaches him about sharing. Finally, however, Susan is placed with an adoptive family and Adam has to learn to get by without her. Told in the form of a connected set of short stories, this skillfully written debut novel shows a clear understanding of a fourth-grader's interests and fears. While the story is not an especially happy one, readers should find enjoyable elements in Adam's tale. Ages 8-12. (June)