A Blossom Promise

The hard-living Blossom family is back in this last title of a remarkable quartet. All the children are anticipating something: Maggie is about to perform with her mother in the rodeo, Vern is preparing to launch a raft on the flooded Snake River and Junior has packed for an overnight stay with his friend Mad Mary in her cave. Then several simultaneous disasters strike, which sorely test the family but also strengthen it. The first half of the book sets up the action in short, alternating chapters focused on individual characterseven the dogs, Mud and Dump. After this long beginning, the plot takes flight, ending hopefully and joyously. Readers will find it hard to bid farewell to this eccentric, exuberant family. Illustrations not seen by PW. Ages 9-12. (October)