Synopsis
In "You Can't Fall for Your Stepsister", volume 2 of the "Step-Chain" series, we meet Ollie, who has mixed feelings about the upcoming beach vacation with his mom, brother, and stepfamily. While he's looking forward to the sun and surf, he can't ignore his growing feelings for Frankie, his stepsister. Only after a trial by water does Ollie recognize that even with the word "step" in front, family is family.
School Library Journal
Gr 4-7-In the first title, 12-year-old Sarah meets her father's girlfriend and her children for the first time and tries to cause trouble. Then, when she arrives back home, she discovers that her mother has a new boyfriend, too. Sarah's younger siblings accept both situations; the girl's epiphany comes during a scene in which she must endure an hour of a "traditional" family arguing. In the second story, 13-year-old Ollie goes on holiday with his stepdad and two stepsisters. He is embarrassed when he thinks he is developing feelings for one of them, 13-year-old, Frankie. Then, his friend Sam joins them and hits it off with her. After a climactic scene in which he saves Sam from drowning, Ollie is finally able to sort out his relationship with Frankie-his new best friend. Although Sarah's acceptance is less convincing than Ollie's, both protagonists grow in understanding their new roles. It is refreshing that the stepparents are the good guys and the stepchildren are knowingly mischievous. The stories are linked through common characters. With solid writing and strong characters, these titles fill a niche. Bryant's inclusion of the first chapter of the next book ensures requests for the books before they hit the library shelves.-Linda L. Plevak, Saint Mary's Hall, San Antonio, TX Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.