Twenty Pageants Later

Nearly all the eighth grade girls are thrilled by the prospect of competing in their school's first beauty pageant. Scottie-Anne, however, whose older sister is a veteran of more than 60 contests, views the proceedings with a somewhat jaded eye. But even she gets caught up in the frenzy when she is tricked into entering the pageant. These giddy goings-on are counterbalanced by Scottie-Anne's experience in a selective Russian studies program. Thanks to Cooney's ( The Face on the Milk Carton ; Family Reunion ) distinctive light touch, her story avoids silliness and trite resolutions, as it treats readers to a detailed look at the beauty pageant business. Brisk writing, plenty of backstage nitty-gritty and the nearly irresistible glamour of the pageants themselves will keep readers turning the pages. Ages 12-up. (May)thius review sounds very familiar; did it run already? not that I know of, but thanks for checking/dr