Enemies: 2

Avowed enemies Mary Anna and Sandra, whose mothers are best friends, find their relationship transformed during an outing to the city, when the two girls are separated from the adults and they must depend on each other for safety

Grade 3-4-- A thin but realistic story about two girls who dislike each other intensely but who are obliged to spend time together because their mothers are best friends. When they get lost in the city, they are forced to rely on each other, and this makes each of them realize the value of the other. The writing is bumpy and the characterization is weak: the focus is so much on the girls' hateful behavior toward each other that it's easy to lose sight of them as individuals. This is lightweight, easy reading, "Babysitter's Club" type of material that should find an audience because of its subject and length. Readers will whip through it, but they won't bother with a second look. --Carolyn Jenks, Oyster River Elementary School, Durham, NH
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

This very short book explores the reluctant friendship that develops between the daughters of two best friends. Sandra and Mary-Anna have always hated each other, and when they have to spend the weekend together, they are prepared for the worst. The girls squabble, but before long, each realizes that it's nice to have the other around. And when a fun adventure in the city turns suddenly frightening, the girls form a temporary alliance that turns into a lasting friendship. Set in Australia, this is a quietly affecting novel that will offer readers a penetrating glimpse of the ways in which people discover each other. Illustrations not seen by PW. Ages 7-10.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.