The Hero

A terrifying nightmare wakes Dale, the 16-year-old protagonist of this story. It is his first premonition, but not his last. He can't tell his family: his mother refuses to admit anything psychic, and his intolerant, abusive father has already driven Dale's sister from the house. Reluctantly, Dale acts on the premonitions and anonymously saves several children's lives. He is labeled a hero for his actions, but he feels alienated from everyone. His family sends him to an unscrupulous parapsychologist who tries to exploit Dale's powers. Ultimately, he escapes and takes refuge with his sister. Reminiscent of Stephen King's Firestarter and Peter Dickinson's Healer, the novel promises muchDale's inner doubts, the tensions and relationships between him, his parents, his best friend and the girl who helps him. But at the end, we are left with little understanding of Dale or his gift. Ages 12-up. (May)