The Stuttgart Nanny Mafia

For 11-year-old Aurora life has taken a downward turn ever since her divorced mother married Benjamin, a dentist. Not only has junk food been banished from the household, but Aurora's close relationship with her parent has changed significantly. Now it's Benjamin who helps to make decisions, such as hiring Tanja, a German au pair , so that Aurora's mother can work in Benjamin's office. Aurora plots various methods of getting rid of Tanja, but her schemes have unexpected repercussions. Some of Aurora's antics are farfetched, yet she remains an engaging character--spunky, bright and identifiably human. Written with wit and style, Fletcher's ( Dragon's Milk ) first-person narrative puts a refreshing new twist on a popular theme. Ages 8-12. (Sept.)