The Jenny Summer

In this bittersweet sequel to Robin Hill, Robin expects her summer to be long and boring. Her budding friendship with Melissa seems on track; then Melissa reads Robin's diary. Jenny moves in next door and she and Robin are in perfect syncthey share everything. But Jenny's life is far from a summer idyll: her parents fight, and her mother has a drinking problem. Robin cares deeply for Jenny but soon learns that even best friends can't save each other from hurt and sadness. This is a highly readable, well-paced novel, with soft black-and-white drawings that punctuate and amplify the action. It's a story that should engage readers tackling first chapter books. Ages 6-9. (April)