Black Star, Bright Dawn

When her father is injured while training for the Iditarod (the famous 1200-mile dogsled race between Anchorage and Nome), Bright Dawn eagerly takes his place. ""The race is won by thinking,'' an older competitor warns her, which proves to be true. Like all superb adventure stories, this one concerns external threats from the elements and nature, as well as the inner battle: the strength of Bright Dawn's character. Of O'Dell's recent works this is one of his bestexciting to read and infused with dignity. The race, with an unexpected ending, gives the story its simple, penetrating structure. But the story's depth comes from Bright Star's admiration for her father, running like a current through the story. O'Dell's understated, laconic style seems perfectly suited to depicting their relationship. Ages 10-14. (April)