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Summer for Darcy looks like it will be filled with problems-- her parents are fighting, she doesn't approve of either her sister's or friend's boyfriends, and she herself is still struggling with how to deal with her attempted rape the previous month.

This installment of the Bluford High series continues in the fast-paced action-packed style of the previous titles. The book deals with a number of sensitive real-world issues-- in addition to those already mentioned, it also touches on teen pregnancy, unemployment, and drug abuse. The sheer number of issues within the pages occasionally gives the book an overly dramatic and unrealistic feel, but they also will drive reluctant readers to keep turning the pages to discover how Darcy and her friends will deal with their next challenge. The book at times carries a morals-heavy tone, but sharing morals allows it to present responsible and valid ways to cope with tough issues.

Recommended for libraries serving a population of Hi-Lo readers. ( )

Sixteen-year-old Darcy Wills was hoping that she'd be able to relax over her summer vacation, but her attack and near-rape at the end of the school year, the death of her grandmother, her parents fighting at home, and watching her friend Brianna date a player have left her more anxious and unable to sleep than ever as secrets wind around her. Darcy doesn't trust boys anymore, not even nice guys like her younger sister's boyfriend or her friend Tarah's cousin, and gets drawn more and more into her own fears as the summer progresses. But Brianna's pregnancy scare makes Darcy realize that she does have people to turn to for help. The expected after-school-special warnings about teen sex and seeking help from trusted adults abound, but the situations and characters will feel true to many readers. The pacing is fast in this hi-lo book, part of the Bluford High series-- which features African American characters-- and fans of the series will be eager for another installment. Recommended for reluctant readers or those looking for a fast read, grades 8-12. ( )

With her parents always fighting at home, teenaged Darcy is looking for refuge. Unfortunately, with her boyfriend now in Detroit and her grandmother recently passed away, Darcy must rely on herself to deal with her family problems and a haunting incident from the past. Realistic dialogue, relatable characters and plenty of action make for a fast-moving storyline in this high-interest novel for young readers. The convincing nature of this story—from family drama to relationship trouble—will keep readers engaged right to the last page. As the tenth book in the popular Bluford High series, readers are able to follow the lives of Darcy and her friends and family in several other Bluford installments. Recommended. For ages 14-18. ( )

great book