Playing Juliet

In Wetzel's Shakespeare-laced debut, superstitious 12-year-old Beth Sondquist aspires to become an actress%E2%80%94and specifically to play the part of Juliet. Beth has been smitten with the theater for years, but her career at the Oakfield Children's Theater nearly comes to an end when she fills in for a sick Duchess in a production of Cinderella! and overplays the part. Fortunately, Beth is liked and trusted at this professionally equipped theater; unfortunately, she responds impulsively when she hears about the new owner's plans to close the theater. Roping in best friend Zandy and 14-year-old stage manager Austin in her efforts to prevent its demise, Beth may lose the chance to participate in the theater's final production when she shoulders the blame for their daring actions. Beth's overly mature narration and the sudden introduction of modern technology (after early references to calling collect and late-night phone calls waking parents, Beth and co. start emailing and texting midway in) occasionally strain an otherwise well-plotted novel with credible characters and numerous details about children's theatrical productions. Ages 8%E2%80%9312. Agent: Sara Sciuto, Fuse Literary. (Nov.)