MAPHEAD

The half-human hero of MapHead (1994, not reviewed) returns in this moving but convoluted sequel. MapHead—so named because of his ability to depict geographical maps on his bald head by altering his pigmentation at will—finds himself alone in the world for the next seven years. Only then, after learning how to control his superhuman talents (telepathy, teleportation) will he be reunited with his father, Powers. But when MapHead befriends young Jack Stamp and forms a psychic link with him, the connection inadvertently pushes Jack into trouble: Soon, he's cutting school and getting beaten up. While MapHead's powers are sufficient to trick Jack's bewildered parents into believing the bald, elfin, unworldly-looking child is just another schoolboy, they aren't enough to rescue his friend. Several serpentine plot twists later, Jack realizes the error of his ways, saves his baby sister's life, and makes up with his parents, while MapHead gains a more mature understanding of his effect on human affairs. Although Howarth's main character is a likable grotesque, her plotting is not as confident as it usually is. Nevertheless, fans who don't find the Briticisms a stumbling block will be glad MapHead is back for a new adventure. (Fiction. 12-15)