Candors Danced

The unstinting manner in which this generous author shares her mother's memories of rural Southern California will come as no surprise to readers familiar with her previous books (The Egypt Game, The Truth About Stone Hollow and others). Life on a ranch is full of fun and adventure for fearless and imaginative Carly, age 11. And while Carly's antics don't always impress her strict father and distant, ailing mother, Carly's loving Aunt Mehitabel and Mehitabel's Chinese servant Woo Ying provide a consistently appreciative and adoring audience. Carly stars in a Fourth of July parade; reads ""unsuitable'' novels (including The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes); and stands up to local bully Henry Babcockgrandson of her family's worst enemy. When Carly and her dog Tiger rescue Henry from a rabid coyote, the feuding families are reconciled, but at great cost to the girl: Tiger has contracted rabies and must be shot. Soon after, Carly's mother dies. In the days that follow, Carly must come to terms with both losses. This novel blends emotional insight and a joyous sense of play to create a lively, compelling tale. Ages 9-13. (September)