Just Dance

In a characteristically subtle novel set in rural Wyoming, MacLachlan intertwines past and present as she explores the truest meaning of family, home, and fulfillment. Ten-year-old Sylvie Bloom's mother, a soprano who once performed in grand European concert halls, now uses her musical talent to calm their farm animals (she reserves The Magic Flute for the chickens). Her voice also mesmerizes her daughter, son, and husband, who huddle by the bathroom door when she sings arias in the shower. Sylvie ponders, with some anguish, how her mother could have abandoned her glamorous former life: "It is hard to believe that loving my father is enough. It is hard to believe that Nate and I are enough." Ironically, as fourth grade ends, the restless narrator longs for "something different" herself, which she finds in a summer job writing (in verse) the sheriff's log in the local paper: "Not invited!/ A murder of crows/ sly/ sleek/ Eating the Bean field." Sylvie's close bonds with her brother and an array of supportive adults distinguish this memorable story, which showcases MacLachlan's gifts for rich characterization, honest emotion, and deceptive simplicity. Ages 7-up. (Sept.)

Gr 3-5--Ten-year-old Sylvie Bloom enjoys an idyllic childhood with her parents and younger brother on their Casper, WY, farm. But a nagging concern that her mother, once an international opera singer, will eventually find their life dull and leave to return to the stage is not relieved by her mother's obvious joy in her present life, as she sings to the livestock and dances spontaneously with her husband. A summer assignment writing the sheriff's newspaper column exposes Sylvie to his wisdom, the goings-on in the town, and the eccentricities of its residents, but she must confront her fears when her mother's former singing partner comes to town for a concert. This short, quiet, lyrical novel moves along swiftly and is sprinkled with Sylvie's touching poetry. Characters are lightly drawn but distinctive and endearing, particularly Sylvie's brother Nate. Along the way, readers will learn a bit about music, community, and family ties. VERDICT A good choice for empathetic young readers and most middle grade shelves.--Marie Orlando, formerly at Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Bellport, NY