Seven Silly Circles

In a sequel to I Don't Live Here! by the acclaimed author of Prairie Songs and What I Did for Roman, Nicki accidentally makes seven red circles on her face by sticking a suction-cup arrow to her skin. She vows not to leave her house until the marks fade, even missing part of the leaf-raking party her family gives the next day. Rescue comes in the form of a summer moth, batting around in her room, which Nicki adopts for company. Further rescue comes from her friend Jeffrey, who refuses to let Nicki ruin a good time over such a minor annoyance. And, by the end of the party, Nicki has learned to trust her friends, family and herself. Poignancy underscores this sweetly humorous story. Conrad allows readers to understand both Nicki's initial chagrin and her quiet maturing. The potential for melodrama is here, but the author never falters or overstates her case; her touch is light and sure. Ages 7-10. (October)