Mr. Nobody's Eyes

In trouble at school and at home, Harry can do little to please his demanding stepfather; Harry's mother, preoccupied with her new baby, has no time to spare for her eldest son. Harry's world is lonely until he meets two circus performers: Signor Blondini and Ocky, a chimpanzee. When Ocky escapes from the circus, Harry hides her in his secret den, but a complicated chain of events forces the pair to run away from home. Together they hop freight trains, live with gypsies and take part in a terrifying adventure. In a happy ending that may strike some readers as abrupt, Harry gains his stepfather's respect and returns home determined to turn over a new leaf. Perceptive writing, strong characters and scenes of breathless suspense combine to produce an overall compelling novel. Ages 10-14. (Mar.)