Remembering Mog

Once again the author of Sydney, Herself and Hannah in Between shows sensitivity and acute understanding of human nature as she probes the psyche of a troubled adolescent. It has been two years since Annie's older sister Mog was shot and killed by a stranger on the eve of her high school graduation, but as Annie's own graduation nears, Annie remembers more clearly than ever the events of that tragic day. Afraid to move forward and increasingly perceiving the world as an unsafe place, Annie seeks guidance from a counselor who provides a secure environment to vent disturbing feelings. Besides detailing the protagonist's healing process, Rodowsky explores various manifestations of grief, including the state of denial experienced by Annie's mother and the suicidal urges of the boyfriend who was with Mog the day she was shot. Without offering pat solutions, the end of this novel signifies the beginning of a new life for Annie and her family. Readers will believe in Annie and in her ability to face the future. Ages 12-up. (Apr.)