KEEP MS. SUGARMAN IN THE FOURTH GRADE

Levy writes affectionately of the period when fourth-grader Jackie discovers that her energy and imagination are appreciated by a teacher and, as a result, comes to value herself—but this is only the beginning of the story. Previously considered a mildly difficult student (``energetic,'' ``hyperactive,'' problems of ``hand-eye coordination''), Jackie basks in Ms. Sugarman's praise; thus, when her teacher is offered the principal's job, Jackie is the most vocal opponent of change, unwilling to part with her new ally. Jackie may or may not be talented—that's not the point of this miniature character study. Levy's ambitions here are minor, but are realized with commendable ease: readers will admire both Jackie and Ms. Sugarman, and perhaps gain some perspective on their own shortcomings. Illustrations not seen. (Fiction. 8-11)