A WINTER’S NIGHT DREAM

A winsome tale in a couple of voices first published in England in 1997; most of the Briticisms remain intact. The language is full of wit and sharp corners and tender observation. Casey (Karen Celia) and her best friend Helen are beginning to wonder about boys, and about feelings. Stew and his best pal Phil can still play Barf Bag but are beginning to question the whole idea of girls and feelings too. Their English teacher, Mr. Hart, offers a few words and a direction. At the kind of party parents dread, Casey meets Dean, a biscuit with a motorcycle and an attitude; Stew talks to Lucy, the sparkling dancer for whose show he works the lights. Phil finds Helen but can’t remember her name. Kissing ensues, but Lucy goes to London to study dance and Dean wants sex without emotion. Mr. Hart gently makes sure that Stew and Casey talk. A bittersweet but okay ending and it’s terrific fun to read. (Fiction. YA)