Dynamite Dinah

Dinah loves to be the center of attention. Whether by changing names to confuse a substitute teacher, dancing with the janitor's broom or memorizing the longest poem in the class, Dinah is always attempting to impress her friends with her outstanding--frequently prankish--abilities. As an only child, she is accustomed to having her parents' undivided attention. But with the arrival of a new baby boy, Dinah's parents are often too tired to give their daughter the attention she is used to. And when her best friend gets the lead in the school play, Dinah has had enough: she decides to steal the show with her small part, but her scheme doesn't work out as planned. Dinah is a spunky heroine, with just enough humility to keep her from being too self-centered. A talented writer, Mills is realistic enough to realize that people, especially Dinah, can only change so much. Ages 8-12. (Apr.)