First Star I See

Gr 3-5--This novel attempts to present the difficulties and frustration felt by children with attention deficit disorder and by the adults who care for them. Paige wants to win a writing contest so she can meet her favorite TV actress, but she is easily distracted and despite her best efforts, doesn't succeed. The actress, however, asks to meet her because she happens to have a daughter who also has been diagnosed with ADD. The writing is just serviceable, with the distinct aftertaste of bibliotherapy, and the black-and-white line drawings are unmemorable. In spite of the stilted plot and writing, there may be a slight chance that this would be useful in school settings to help young readers understand ADD. Be advised, however, that this is a book of mediocre quality with very limited appeal.

Christine A. Moesch, Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, NY

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