The Heights, the Depths, and Everything in Between

Lucy says that when they were little, she and her best friend, Jake, were the same size. But as the years passed, she grew and he didn't. At the beginning of their first year in junior high, Lucy is five foot ten, and Jake is a dwarf. Junior high is bad enough when all goes well, but imagine this odd pair spending time in the company of junior high's best, or should I say worst. Complicating matters for both Lucy and Jake are family problems on the home front. Lucy must deal with the fact that her father has left to "find himself." Jake is adjusting to his mother's newest boyfriend. But at least the two friends can count on each other. As often happens in junior high, new friendships form. Jake begins hanging out with a less desirable crowd. Lucy is furious when she hears about his new relationship with Gary Geary. But speaking of relationships, Lucy seems to get a funny feeling whenever Gary is around. She can't understand what the attraction is or what she should do about it. Sally Nemeth's quirky characters, sense of humor, great settings, and clever plot twists make THE HEIGHTS, THE DEPTHS, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN a book well-worth reading. All readers will find something or someone to identify with in the pages of this fun book. Reviewed by: Sally Kruger, aka "Readingjunky"

This book invites comparisons to Judy Blume's works, and acquits itself admirably. Compelling, memorable characters including a girl who's too tall for her age and her best friend who's too short. Their friendship is quite touching and real. The theme of trying to fit in while remaining true to oneself will resonate with most tweens or adolescents. Recommended.