Harrar (First Tiger) creates a balance of tenderness, humor and dramatic tension in this convincing portrayal of an ADD foster child adjusting to a new family. After being rejected by his birth parents, then several foster families, 12-year-old Andy is anxious to be adopted by a "normal" couple and the Sizeracys appear to fit the bill. However, his good intentions are often overshadowed by disruptive behavior. Confusing the conflicting values of his birth parents and his new guardians, Andy frequently gets himself into trouble. His antics—escalating from vandalizing mailboxes to stealing to making false accusations of child molestation—nearly threaten his chance for a permanent placement with the Sizeracys. A couple of subplots (Andy's brief encounter with his biological father, a crotchety neighbor's abrupt change of heart towards Andy) get short shrift, but overall this novel offers a persuasive portrait of the inner workings of Andy's mind. The author captures the hero's emotional turmoil and desperate need for acceptance. Readers will sympathize with both Andy and his adoptive parents as they seek and eventually find mutual trust and love. Ages 9-12. (Sept.)
