THIS RANDOM SKY

Once again James Summers goes contrary to the unusual pattern of books for teen agers. In this story of a young California mathematician--Ken--and his love for Rae, his high school sweetheart, Summers emphatically demonstrates that reality is an elusive quantity which tends toward random meanderings. Ken, a uniquely gifted mathematician, is deeply in love with Rae, but exercises supreme control over his emotions in order to fulfill his commitments to his work. To Ken, on the surface a coldly objective scientist, basically a bewildered and ardent young man in the full throes of growth, his choice is clear. He must either take the path of pleasant domesticity or serve the discipline of his choice under the tutelage of revered teachers. But real choices are not that simple. Ken's devotion to his work is rendered partially expendable by political expediencies. Rae turns to a young man who appears to be less cold, and the full realization of the rigorous complexities of responsibility endow the young scientist with a mature and comprehensive understanding of his task. A complicated theme is, with the exception of a few ambiguities, handled here in a moving and expressive manner. And, despite any flaws this book by the author of The Limit of Love, Ring Around Her Finger, Wait For Private Black, etc. may have, it recognizes the adolescent as a potentially intelligent reader interested in meaningful material, and provides him with the opportunity to apply his abilities.