Riley Mae and the Rock Shocker Trek

Gr 4–6—In Riley Mae and the Rock Shocker Trek, seventh-grader Riley Mae's life changes drastically when her father, who owns an advertising company, lands a contract with Swiftriver, a company that makes athletic shoes for girls. Riley becomes the company's spokesgirl and finds that though she loves many of the elements of her new responsibilities, there are many things she doesn't like. As the story progresses, it becomes evident that the Swiftriver people are not who they say they are. The photographer and Riley's make-up assistant turn out to be fugitives running from a killer who murdered their wealthy father. The killer follows them all up a mountain where a photo shoot is to take place. The story quickly morphs into a survival/adventure tale as Riley, her father, and the other characters must flee from the danger of an approaching storm and an aggressive killer. In Riley Mae and the Ready Eddy Rapids, the family is fleeing with the former photographer and make-up artist to a resort hideaway where the killer can't find them. Many of the same characters are in the second book, in addition to a Somali boy who provides inspiration to Riley because of his courage in battling leukemia. By the conclusion of the second book, Riley has another narrow escape from the killer and is on her way to a foreign country to hide from the impending danger, setting the stage for the next book. This is a new offshoot series of "FaithGirlz!" (Zonderkidz) and the author does a good job of weaving Riley's religious life and activities into the story. At times, Riley turns to prayer and attends church services and activities. None of this is presented in a heavy-handed manner—just as a natural part of the protagonist's life. Though somewhat formulaic and predictable, the likable characters and fast-paced plot will appeal to readers who enjoy series fiction. Riley Mae is an athletic, gutsy character who presents a strong role model for girls who are underrepresented in action series. Give these to fans of the "Sammy Keyes" series by Wendelin Van Draanen (Random) and reluctant readers.—Tina Martin, Arlington Heights Memorial Library, IL