KEEP MS. SUGARMAN IN THE FOURTH GRADE

Levy writes affectionately of the period when fourth-grader Jackie discovers that her energy and imagination are appreciated by a teacher and, as a result, comes to value herself--but this is only the beginning of the story. Previously considered a mildly difficult student (""energetic,"" ""hyperactive,"" problems of ""hand-eye coordination""), Jackie basks in Ma. Sugarman's praise; thus, when her teacher is offered the principal's job, Jackie is the most vocal opponent of change, unwilling to part with her new ally. Jackie may or may not be talented--that's not the point of this miniature character study. Levy's ambitions here are minor, but are realized with commendable ease: readers will admire both Jackie and Ms. Sugarman, and perhaps gain some perspective on their own shortcomings. Illustrations not seen.