Pillow of Clouds

Talbert ( Double or Nothing ; The Paper Knife ) is back with another powerful work centered around a young person's struggles to grow up. This ``problem'' novel easily transcends the genre, due to the freshness and clarity of Talbert's vision and the integrity of his writing. Under the terms of Chester's parents' divorce agreement, when the boy turns 13 he must choose which of his parents has custody. After spending a glorious summer in Santa Fe, N.M., with his father and his artist girlfriend, Chester decides to return to Iowa to tell his mother that he no longer wishes to live with her. But his mother, a self-centered, manipulative alcoholic, won't listen to Chester; she tries to buy his love, causing him to feel even more anguished and resentful. Once back in New Mexico, Chester remains torn, and feels guilty when he learns that his mother has attempted suicide. After trying to run away from his tumultuous feelings, Chester finally faces them; he finds that sharing his troubles with those he loves makes them less overwhelming. Ages 12-up. (Apr.)