The Trouble with Flirting

Gr 8 Up—In this light, romantic tribute to Jane Austen, the setting is a theater program for high school students at Mansfield College, and the plot focuses on who is courting whom. Franny Pearson is surrounded by talented teens who are attending a six-week program to hone their acting skills. Franny, however, is there to work as a seamstress for her Aunt Amelia, the college's costume director. Most of the self-centered, insecure teens are seeking a love interest to complete their summer fun. When Franny meets an old friend, Julia Braverman, she recalls the crush she had on Julia's older brother when she was in eighth grade and is delighted to find out he's there, too. Spending time and sharing meals with the actors when she is not working, Franny enjoys the attention she receives from Alex but is confused as to why he would then choose to spend most of his time with beautiful Isabella. Meanwhile handsome, irresistible Harry flirts with all of the females willing to fall at his feet, convincing Franny that he's not to be trusted. Still, she has a wonderful time with him on one of the group's outings and the two become a couple. Enter Alex. Once again he touches Franny's heart, and she is left trying to figure out who is two-timing whom and what her role is in the summer's complicated relationship configurations. If you need enjoyable beach reads for teens looking for airy intrigue and affairs of the heart, this volume works.—Joanne K. Cecere, Monroe-Woodbury High School, Central Valley, NY