The Dream Collector

Fifteen-year-old Becky can't get all her family members the presents they want for Christmas, so instead she buys everyone a self-help book that explains how to make wishes come true through positive thinking. The gift does prove inspirational, but begins to generate conflicts within the family. Younger brother Tom becomes obsessed with money; Julia, an aspiring poet, gets discouraged about her writing; and Becky's parents seem to be arguing even more often than usual. Becky does succeed in winning a date with her handsome neighbor, but her victory turns sour when she finds herself falling in love with the boy's best friend. Sweeney ( Right Behind the Rain ; Center Line ) ably delineates family relationships as she explores the nature of dreams and the pitfalls of ambition. With precisely etched characters, her affecting and tender novel presents a perfect blend of humor and dramatic tension. Ages 12-up. (Nov.)