From School Library Journal
Gr 5-8-Two titles that use questions and answers to contribute to the easy-to-read format, with highlighted real-life examples that make them appealing to young teens and reluctant readers. Isler explains in general terms what happens to children when their parents divorce. She covers some of the more complicated situations that can arise, such as whether or not grandparents get visitation rights and whether or not a stepparent can obtain custodial rights. Foster care and emancipation situations are also addressed. Leibowitz points out that while all blended families can't be like The Brady Bunch, they can be positive and healthy. She suggests ways to help adolescents deal with stepparents, stepsiblings, and even their own parents. Questions ranging from "What should I call my new stepmom?" to "How do I fit in this new family?" are addressed. The text attempts to destroy misconceptions of the wicked stepmother while helping young people deal with conflicting emotions, such as feelings of disloyalty, jealousy, and anger. In both books, a variety of full-color photographs complement the texts, and illustrations from Cinderella and The Brady Bunch (in Finding) add interest as well.-Pamela S. Bacon, Southmont High School, Crawfordsville, IN
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