Class Act

Isn't a private school all about doting parents, perfect smiles, and high college test scores? Don't the school walls somehow insulate the kids, teachers, and their families from the rest of society's problems? Not according to CLASS ACT. Laura Abbot's latest novel is a compelling story of desire, loneliness, and fear in conflict with integrity, joy, and faith. Much more than a story of lovers, it is a drama of families, both caring and broken, that touches all generations. It underscores the special and enduring relationships among teachers, children, and parents, while it focuses on the shared responsibility of making right choices. Though it challenges role models that abuse the trust of youth and adults alike, it also offers alternatives grounded in courage, wisdom, character, and love. Are such heroes possible in today's world? To that question, I suspect that many of Ms. Abbot's readers, former students, and colleagues will issue a resounding "Yes!" CLASS ACT fulfills the promise of its title! --Bobbie Roe