From Publishers Weekly
In the third book starring the irrepressible James Priestly Tate, the 12-year-old experiences love for the first time, but gets in hot water when he tells his inamorata that he has a rare, fatal disease. Ages 9-12.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to the
Paperback
edition.
From School Library Journal
Grade 4-7-- The dilemma confronting J. P. Tate is of immense import: how to win the affection of his seventh - grade classmate , Angela Galsworthy, newly arrived from London. J. P.'s machinations as he grapples with the ever-growing problems created by his infatuation form the basic outline of the plot. The events and attitudes expressed would seem more appropriate for the older J. P. who appeared in the two previous offerings about the Tate family, The 100th Thing About Caroline (1983) and Switcharound (1985, both Houghton). Here, he is only 12, but he seems older than in those two books. However, the amusing banter between his 10-year-old sister, Caroline, and J. P.; the believable characters; and the realistic school setting provide pleasant, light reading for Lowry fans. Readers will empathize with J. P.'s discomfort as he is trapped by small white lies that become complicated deceptions. They will cheer him as he retains his chess champion status against tremendous odds. They will nod with satisfaction as he realizes that Angela, her pearly teeth and spun-gold hair notwithstanding, doesn't hold a candle to his old friend Hope, who comes through for him in a pinch. Even though J. P. has forsaken his ingenious electrical creations and his computer wizardry for the role of lovesick swain, his wry sense of humor, cleverness, and creativity are enough in evidence to satisfy readers of this series. --Martha Rosen, Edgewood School, Scarsdale, NY
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to the
Hardcover
edition.
