Roommates

Mimi and Beth are sisters who are quite dissimilar: Beth is neat and tidy, while Mimi is messy and likes to boss her sister around. Though each has always had her own room, the pending arrival of a baby in the family necessitates that the girls share one. Their differences begin to predominate during the enforced togetherness, and constant squabbling ensues. But when Beth needs help with her spelling, Mimi volunteers, and gradually, the sisters learn to get along in their shared space. When the baby is born, Beth decides she wants to be a big sister just like Mimi . . . sometimes. Sibling rivalry is a familiar theme, but Galbraith treats it with a fresh tone. Beth and Mimi are portrayed realistically, their antagonism and friendship believable. Graham's pencil drawings invite beginning readers to tackle the story on their own. Ages 6-9. (Mar.)