THE HILL

A psychological novel, adroitly handled, and with a good deal of charm. A family goes on a picnic-- and Vinnie views them all from the top of a hill, recreating for the reader, the stories of the members of the group, now through bits of conversation, now through stream of consciousness method. Each incident well done -- the girl's sympathetic understanding and the way every member of the family turns to her is amazing. If a first novel, shows real promise.