The Star Shack

Gr 7—10—Annabelle and Pete share a passion for baseball, but when she develops an obsession with astrology, it derails their deepening relationship. Incessant references to the hobby aggravate Pete, while his increasingly uncommunicative behavior troubles Annabelle. When the stars say she should move ahead with a business venture, she dares Pete to join her in establishing a romantic-advice astrology booth on Gingerbread Beach's boardwalk, even though he is being pursued by, and starts dating, Sarah, an older and more sophisticated teen whose passive-aggressive remarks and condescending behavior unsettle Annabelle. If the booth's a bust, Annabelle promises never to talk about astrology with Pete again. Never one to decline a dare, Pete accepts, and quickly wins over customers with his charisma and his wide knowledge of astrology, attained during cram sessions and aided by his photographic memory. The narration switches between the two protagonists effectively. Characterizations are realistic and natural, including Annabelle's post-breakup emotions and Sarah's aggressively flirtatious and catty attitude. Pete's excitement over being noticed by an older girl is authentic, while his conflicting feelings regarding his relationship with Annabelle are plausible. The ending is predictable yet not overly cheesy, and the love stories set in motion by the duo's advice are sweet. Not an essential purchase, but an enjoyable summer read.—Jennifer Schultz, Fauquier County Public Library, Warrenton, VA