Hideaway

This book reminds me somewhat of another childhood favorite--From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. Unlike Claudia and Jamie's carefully-planned running away, however, Addie and Clay Carver's experience was the result of a snap decision on her part. Long separated by their parents' divorce, this sister and brother are just getting to know each other when Addie shows Clay The Hideaway. The way they manage the housekeeping, take care of baby raccoons, and become a team (all while making their parents believe they're at summer camp) makes a geat story. I admired Addie as a child and wished for a hideaway of my own (also for a brother and baby raccoons--not neccessarily in that order). As an adult, I have a greater appreciation for Addie's grief for her grandmother and for the relationship she and Clay develop. I loved reading this on my own (it's mainly for 8-12-year-olds), but it is also a great read-aloud book for families.