From School Library Journal
Grade 5-8 Twelve-year-old Caroline Cabot feels overwhelmed by her beloved older sister's illness, which keeps her mother preoccupied. Linda's treatment at a distant hospital coincides with the appearance of Lillina MacGregor, a neighbor's niece who is visiting for the summer. Caroline is tempted by loneliness and curiosity into developing a friendship with the mysterious "Mrs. MacGregor," a 17-year-old sophisticate from New York. Lillina, who fills Caroline's head with details of her generous husband and charming sister, weaves stories that gradually make her suspect even in Caroline's trusting eyes. Episodes of shoplifting and missing money lead to Caroline's disillusionment with her new friend. The story moves quickly as Caroline's suspicions are proven correct: Lillina is discovered in all her dishonesty to be only 15, a high-school sophomore from Michigan. What begins as a tale of rebellious behavior climaxes into a full-blown psychiatric problem. When Lillina finally breaks down completely, Caroline learns a great deal about friendship and honesty, and discovers that Lillina has provided her with a new sense of her own independence. The importance of self-esteem and enjoying what makes each individual special continues to be the author's strongest theme. Well written with humor, strong characterization, and a convincing plot, readers will not be disappointed by this fast-paced book. Karen D. Levi, Albany Public Library, N.Y.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.
