THE SNOOP

A slight story, awkwardly told, for those just learning to handle chapters by themselves. Ellen has gone with her grandmother, Bon, for an overnight visit with Bon’s friends Janet and L.J. on their farm. Ellen is disappointed that the farm no longer keeps animals, though Janet and L.J. grow flowers and vegetables. Bon reminds Ellen not to snoop around, but Ellen can’t help but open drawers (and send beads flying about the room) and poke into old address books. She finds a small dead bunny outside too, and, instead of leaving it alone, hides it under her bed wrapped in her sweater, resulting in a terrible smell. Ellen learns that Bon had a curious streak when she was small, and all ends gently. It’s all minor exhortation, nicely packaged, without much staying power. (b&w illustrations, not seen) (Fiction. 7-10)