From Publishers Weekly
The author of There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom shows how easy it is for one secret to become a catacomb of secretssome harmful, some harmlesseven when no one has intended them to go so far. Laura has hair down to there that is the envy of the sixth grade girls and admired by one boyGabriel. She starts a club called Pig City; members offer their own secrets as "insurance" against their telling anyone else of the club's existence. A rival club springs upMonkey Townand soon there are so many secrets that it looks as if their teacher, Mr. Doyle, will have to take drastic measures. Sachar has created a bunch of kids and worries that are quite real; his witty, well-paced story shows off his impeccable ear for classroom banter. Ages 9-12.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 4-6 Laura's below-the-waist hair and her spirited personality have earned her a leadership role among classmates and the secret worship of Gabriel. She starts a secret club called ``Pig City'' and begins a covert chalkboard writing campaign featuring ``pig'' words. In an effort to win Laura's attention, Gabriel sends a note, which jealous Sheila intercepts and changes. When Laura reads the now insulting letter, the battle begins. Eventually a rival club, Monkey Town, is formed. Warfare begins with silly pranks but soon escalates into ugly and destructive acts, culminating when Sheila and a friend sabotage Laura and cut her hair. The sheared Laura sees how foolish they've been, and the truth of Gabriel's affection comes to light. Laura's instant maturity may be a bit too rapid, given her stubbornness and intense pride, but overall, characters and their actions are realistic, uncomfortably so. The plot is predictable, and the writing style is just adequate, but the situations presented are on-target. The humor, frequent dialogue, and brief chapters make this suitable for reluctant readers. Heide Piehler, Shorewood Public Library, Wis.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.
