A Map of Nowhere

Nick has two great passions in life: he loves to play fantasy games and he yearns to become a part of his brother Terry's motorcycle gang. The chance to indulge both passions comes when he finds a classmate's wallet. The wallet belongs to Joseph Fisher, a quiet boy who is deeply involved in a fantasy game created by his older sister Ruth. Although Joseph and Ruth are different from anyone Nick has ever known, he is soon engrossed in the game they play. But Nick is caught up in another game as well: his brother wants him to learn a few important facts about the shop that Joseph's family runs. Although at first he is able to pretend that it is all just a game, Nick soon admits to himself that he is helping Terry's gang with their plans to rob the Fishers' store. As the two games hurtle towards a head-on collision, Nick makes some crucial decisions about the way he wants to lead his life. A flawless plot and impeccable pacing make this novel as suspenseful as it is thought-provoking. It's another original offering from one of Britain's most versatile and talented authors. Ages 9-12. (Apr.)