SPLIT SISTERS

by C.S. Adler ‧ RELEASE DATE: March 1, 1986

This funny, touching novel focuses on a family breakup as seen from the point of view of the 11-year-old younger sister. Feisty, outspoken Case feels picked on and misunderstood by her ambitious, cranky mother; has a loving friendship with her stepfather, Gerry; and adores her pretty, shy 14-year-old sister, Jen. It's Jen whom Case has always turned to for support, comfort, and understanding. The sisters' close relationship is threatened when Mom gets a job promotion and refuses to commute to New York City from the family's Stamford, Conn., home. Instead, she plans to sell the house and move to New York with Jen, Case is to stay in Stamford with Gerry, who has quit his job to become a cartoonist. Case initially tries to keep the family together by telling the realtor the house is falling apart and by faking a suicide attempt; her efforts are, of course, unsuccessful. However, the breakup ultimately sparks some positive changes: Jen likes her new school, becomes more sure of herself, and discovers boys; Case becomes less emotionally dependent on Jen, makes peace with her mother, and becomes less judgmental and more willing to compromise. Mom quits her high-pressure job and reconciles with Gerry; like Case, both have learned the art of compromise. Mom and Gerry announce a family move to New Jersey, where Mom has taken a job with a short commute. Although the family ends up together and happy, Adler makes it clear that growth and change are continuing, necessary, and desirable aspects of life. Readers will enjoy watching Case and her family cope with change, and are likely to come away feeling hopeful about their own growth processes.

Pub Date: March 1, 1986

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Macmillan

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 15, 1986

Categories: CHILDREN'S