Mother's Helper

Taking care of little Devon on remote Sebastian Island seems like the perfect summer job for Becky, but appearances prove deceptive in this thriller by the author of Party Line. According to Mrs. Nelson, Devon's strange mother, she and her baby are fleeing an abusive husband. Before long, Becky figures out that the woman's story doesn't quite add up: she keeps Becky a virtual prisoner in their cabin and hardly knows how to handle Devon. Despite Mrs. Nelson's behavior, however, Becky makes friends with a local boy--who in turn seems to behave strangely toward Becky. This fast-paced narrative--offering entertainment without taxing its audience--should prove particularly engrossing to reluctant or slower readers. Ages 12-up. (Aug.)