Ivy Ling is the middle child in a busy Chinese-American household in 1976 San Francisco. Ivys best friend, Julie Albright, has moved to another part of the city. The only place Ivy feels at home is at gymnastics. When the big tournament is schedule on the same day as the annual Ling reunion, Ivy wrestles with a difficult choice. Illustrations. Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.

Gr 2 5 In this "companion to the Julie books," set in San Francisco in the 1970s, the spotlight is on 10-year-old Ivy Ling, who is trying to find her way in a time of change. Julie moved away with her mother after her parents' divorce and, while she visits frequently, it is not the same as having a best friend since kindergarten right next door. Mrs. Ling is in law school, Ivy's father has taken a second job, her 12-year-old brother seems to do everything right, and Ivy feels the weight of every mistake she makes. The writing is accessible and appealing, and color illustrations are scattered throughout. Readers will be able to relate to but won't be overwhelmed by this story of making difficult decisions Ivy needs to choose between her gymnastics tournament and attending a reunion of the Lings. Family interactions are warm and reassuring. Fans of the series will not be disappointed, and newcomers will enjoy meeting this member of the "American Girl" crew. Back matter has a brief but interesting look into the history of Chinese Americans. Susan Moorhead, New Rochelle Public Library, NY Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. From: Reed Elsevier Inc. Copyright Reed Business Information