Strider

August 31, 1992
Two boys share custody of a dog in this sequel to the Newbery Award winner Dear Mr. Henshaw . Ages 8-12.

September 2, 1991
Although it lacks the emotional intensity that made Cleary's Newbery-winning Dear Mr. Henshaw an instant classic, this sequel offers further proof of the author's preeminence in children's fiction. Here, as in the preceding novel, she credibly and cogently writes in the voice of Leigh Botts--a boy with whom readers of both sexes will find much in common. Through entries made in a diary that he uncovers when cleaning his room, Leigh (now 14) tells of the dog that he and his friend find abandoned on the beach. The boys assume joint custody of the pet, which they name Strider. But it soon becomes evident that Strider has rescued Leigh from physical and emotional apathy. Leigh's relationship with his devoted pet gives him the strength to deal with what seem to be insurmountable problems: his parents' separation, his dad's imperfections and even his attraction to a girl at school. Zelinsky's sketchy artwork provides quietly affecting details. Once again Cleary demonstrates her ability to write from the heart. Ages 8-up.

January 1, 1991
Leigh Botts, the central character in 'Dear Mr. Henshaw' (Morrow), is now fourteen. He and a friend find an abandoned dog Leigh names Strider, and in caring for him Leigh passes from childhood into adolescence - learning to accept, finally, his parents' divorce and experiencing a first romance. Once again, Cleary proves that she is in complete harmony with the world view of children and adolescents.

(Copyright 1991 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)