Two Under Par

Wedge is a slightly overweight boy, age 10, who stows away presents in a box that he hopes to give someday to his father. His mother Sally says she doesn't even know who his father is, and she expects Wedge to adapt to his new stepfather, King, and King's son Andrew. Wedge's window overlooks King's miniature golf course, where a castle marks the 18th hole. The boy doesn't like anything about his new life and being part of a family; he finds King to be a homely buffoon, and Sally, who is pregnant, no longer available to him. The complicated process of learning acceptance and being accepted is one Henkes explores with confidence and care. His novelist's hand is as sure as his illustrative talents. In this touching and funny book, there are no easy or sudden solutionsjust a sense of isolation slipping away, as Wedge reaches out and receives much more than he expects. Ages 7-11. (March)